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Advantages: A simply stunning building overall, it's free Disadvantages: The "blue" aspect may disappoint you,can be very busy
In Istanbul's Battle of the Buildings, the Blue Mosque is, for me, the outright winner. It was built in the seventeenth century on the orders of Sultan Ahmet I with the intention that it should rival the Hagia Sophia which stands opposite it. The image of these two fantastic buildings square up to each other is one of the most breath-taking sights in Istanbul, a city that's not short on visual magnificence. Both buildings are quite extraordinary but it's the Blue Mosque that wins me over with its six stately minarets and awesome courtyard; I'd go so far as to say that every trip (at least every first trip) to Istanbul should include a visit to the Blue Mosque.
With its six minarets, the Blue Mosque is easily identifiable from all over the city - even in a city that is teeming with mosques. There is a story that claims that the Sultan ...
I been to Mumbai number of times mostly on official errands, naturally had little time for sight-seeing and I regretted it most of the time, main reasons being my inherent weakness and curiosity about Muslim history and their curious propensity for excellent art work. Who can forget the great ?Taj Mahal?, one of nine Wonders of the World, a piece unbelievable example of Islamic architecture and a tribute to Shahzahan?s great love for his wife Mumtaz. But during my recent visit I was determined to at least have a look at the eye catching Haji Ali Mosque. It was a decision that I will never rue.
WHO WAS HAJI ALI:
Syed Peer Haji Ali Shah Bukhari, Haji Ali who is believed to be a wealthy local business man in Bukharia, in the ancient Persian Empire now in Uzbekistan. Haji Ali traveled around the world in the early 1400s ...
Advantages: Simply beautiful Disadvantages: Beggars with crying children
When i went to India last year, i visited the Haji Ali Mosque as i was sightseeing in Bombay. It i slocated in the Arabian sea so therefore can only be visited when the tide is low.
It is quite a long walk upto the actual mosque as everyone is briefly searched before entering. There are many stalls on the path which sell flower wreaths that can be placed on the tomb, jewellery and souvenirs. These can all be bought along with refreshments for very cheap prices.
When i first entered the mosque i put a scarf over my head as a sign of respect.
There is a separate part for girls and boys and men can make their prayers. This is thought to be a sign of huge respect and is considered very holy.
I also made a short prayer in my head as it is said that whatever you wish for whilst inside the mosque will come true.
The atmosphere is unusual ...
