New Mosque

The name Yeni Camii (New Mosque) is rather misleading though, as the mosque actually dates back to the 1663. It is an imposing structure with a large open space in front, where birdseed sellers have created a healthy pigeon population (who enjoy a starring role in many New Mosque photos). It has a typically ornate interior, and was built as part of a complex that also contained a hospital, hamam, fountains and a market. It was the last of the imperial mosques to be built, and the only one built during the reign of Sultan Mehmet III. The site was chosen by his mother, Safiye, which is why it was originally called Valide Sultan Camii (Queen Mother Mosque).