To create symmetry, he placed doors in the center of those colonnades. But inside the mosque, the doors meant worshipers now came and went from the middle of the room rather than from the back. “A sacred space meant for prayer and contemplation became a passageway,” Sinan the guide explained. “It was a mistake he would never repeat.” — NYT
Andrew Ferren traveled to Turkey on an architectural pilgrimage, to learn more about the work of a 16th-century architect and engineer named Sinan. Sinan (circa 1490-1588) was chief architect and civil engineer of the Ottoman Empire at its apogee and Mr. Ferren arranged the trip through bespoke travel agency Sea Song Tours in Istanbul.
Previously Orhan Ayyüce has posted about The Ottoman architect who linked East and West.
1 Comment
The Sokollu Pasha Mosque is an incredible study of fitting an impressive religious building in a neighborhood setting. The scale and way he controlled the sloping site display his mastery. I heard that there are pieces of the Kaaba Stone set in some of the door lintels. Visiting this building should be on the "Istanbul To-Do List" of every designer.
Block this user
Are you sure you want to block this user and hide all related comments throughout the site?
Archinect
This is your first comment on Archinect. Your comment will be visible once approved.