A few months ago, I published an article on my channel about the Museum of Turkish and Islamic Arts in Istanbul. This exhibition is located within the former palace of Ibrahim Pasha, who was the grand vizier of Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent. Today, I would like to show you another structure in the city associated with this historical figure: we will take a walk through the Makbul Ibrahim Pasha Mosque. I couldn’t find much information about this building, but I think you’ll find its interiors interesting.
The History of the Mosque
The first mosque on the site of the current structure was built in 1536. According to online sources, the building suffered multiple fires throughout its long history, but each time, it was restored.
The mosque was revived during the reign of Sultan Mahmud II, who ruled the Ottoman Empire from 1808 to 1839. It is likely that after three centuries, the structure had fallen into decay. The building took on its current appearance in the early 1900s.
I came across an old postcard showing the mosque before its modern renovations. I must say that today, the building looks much more austere. In the past, its wooden minaret was crowned with an elegant dome, and its facades were decorated with alternating contrasting stripes. Today, the only hint that this is a mosque is the very same minaret—otherwise, the structure is indistinguishable from many other buildings in the city.
The mosque's name is Makbul İbrahim Paşa. Online translation tools suggest that the word makbul can mean "pleasant," "approved," "desirable," or "favorable." In the context of the mosque’s name, it may refer to a respected person. Wikipedia states that Ibrahim Pasha's name was also accompanied by the word maktul ("executed," "victim"), likely due to the circumstances of his death.
During his lifetime, Ibrahim Pasha gained significant influence. However, his rapid rise and military successes displeased the Ottoman elite. His lifeless body was discovered after a dinner with Sultan Suleiman I. According to legend, the ruler had once promised never to execute his vizier. But one of the sultan’s subordinates told him: "Life is activity; when we sleep, we do not live. Let him die when you sleep." Soon after, Ibrahim Pasha was put to death. Interestingly, locals have told me of another legend that his body was buried in the basement of a building next to the mosque.
How to Get There
The mosque is located on the shores of the Golden Horn, near the Galata Bridge. You can reach it from the T1 tram or the F2 funicular—both stops are called "Karaköy". The walk to the mosque takes no more than five minutes.
Near the mosque, you’ll find several spots where you can try balık dürüm, a famous Istanbul dish consisting of fish wrapped in lavash with spices. If you decide to take your food to go, there is a small viewing platform between the mosque and the bridge, offering a great view of the bay.
After visiting the mosque, you can take a stroll along the Golden Horn. I have previously written about the landmarks in this part of the city in one of my past articles.
Have a nice trip!
