Historical Nusretiye Mosque and Clock Tower (Tophane - 1826)

History and General Information / Local Legends and Folklore Ottoman Sultan Sultan II. Nusretiye Mosque, built by the important architect Krikor Balyan between 1823 and 1826 by Mahmud II, is a masterpiece rising on the shores of the Bosphorus. It was named "Nusretiye", meaning "Divine Victory and Help", in honor of the abolition of the Janissary Corps (Vak'a-i Hayriyye), which ended and opened an era in Ottoman history. The mosque, which is considered the most perfect and monumental example of the Ottoman empire and baroque style; It attracts attention with its high pedestal, double rows of elegant windows, finely fluted minarets and the magnificent Hünkar Mahfili opening to the sea. Tophane Clock Tower, located in its courtyard, was built by Sultan Abdülmecid in 1848 and is the landmark of Tophane Square with its neo-classical and baroque details. According to historical rumor, Sultan II. Mahmud lit the torch of modernization of the Ottoman army in this temple by having this mosque built in Tophane Square, where the Janissary barracks were attacked; He personally came to the Friday greetings with his sultanate boat. Geographical Structure, Altitude and Natural Features It is located on the Beyoğlu Tophane coast, between the Parliament Street and the Galataport dock. Its height above sea level is 6 meters. The mosque courtyard, which is open to the cool breezes of the Bosphorus, is adorned with centuries-old plane trees and sea views. Visiting Hours, Days and Entrance Fees