Şehzade Mosque

Commissioned by Suleiman the Magnificent for his son Şehzade Mehmed, who died young, this mosque was among the first major imperial works of the architect Mimar Sinan, completed in 1548. Sinan later called it an apprentice piece, yet its balanced symmetry, four semi-domes and richly decorated twin minarets show his emerging mastery. The surrounding complex holds a medrese, soup kitchen and a garden of royal tombs, among them the ornately tiled türbe of the prince. It remains a serene counterpoint to busier landmarks.