Mosques of Istanbul

The key to the history and splendour of Islamic art and architecture is the centrally planned mosque. In Istanbul, in its Ottoman form, the domed roof contrasts with thin elegant minarets. The mosques of Istanbul were instruments of enlightened religious policy, and represent the pinnacle of a thousand year-old architectural tradition. Building by building, this beautifully illustrated book describes the development of the Ottoman mosque, first in Bursa and Edirne, and then in Istanbul itself after the city was captured by the Turks in 1453. With full colour illustrations and a lively, informative text, Mosques of Istanbul is indispensable both to the visitor and to those wishing to understand and enjoy the beauty and architectural prowess of the mosque.