Global Treasures: Blue Mosque - Sultan Ahmed Mosque is a 50-minute documentary that takes the viewers on a journey to Istanbul, Turkey, to explore the history and architecture of one of the most beautiful and iconic mosques in the world, the Sultan Ahmed Mosque, more commonly known as the Blue Mosque. The documentary starts with an introduction to the city of Istanbul and its rich history, dating back to the Byzantine and Ottoman empires. The Blue Mosque, which was built in the early 17th century, was one of the most ambitious projects of the Ottoman Empire, commissioned by Sultan Ahmed I, who wanted to create a magnificent mosque that would rival the Hagia Sophia, the most famous church of the time.
The documentary presents an in-depth look at the exterior and interior of the Blue Mosque, highlighting its unique features and stunning beauty. The mosque is known for its six minarets, which was a controversial decision at the time, as the Grand Mosque in Mecca was the only other mosque with six minarets. The documentary explains how the sultan resolved the issue by commissioning a seventh minaret for the Grand Mosque, making the Blue Mosque once again the only mosque with six minarets.
The Blue Mosque is also famous for its beautiful blue tiles, which cover the walls and ceilings of the mosque's interior. The documentary explains the process of making these tiles, which involved painting the tiles with cobalt before firing them at high temperatures. The result is a stunning display of intricately designed blue tiles that give the mosque its name.
The documentary also explores the Islamic calligraphy that adorns the walls of the Blue Mosque, which features verses from the Quran and other Islamic prayers. The documentary explains the significance of calligraphy in Islamic art and how it is used to convey the beauty and power of the Quran.
The documentary also delves into the engineering and architecture of the Blue Mosque, which is a marvel of Ottoman Islamic architecture. The documentary explains how the mosque's architects used geometry and symmetry to create the beautiful dome and arches that define the mosque's interior. The documentary also explores the importance of light in Islamic architecture, which is evident in the mosque's many windows and skylights.
The documentary ends with a reflection on the significance of the Blue Mosque, not only as a beautiful work of art but also as a symbol of Islamic faith and culture. The documentary reminds viewers that the Blue Mosque is still an active mosque and a place of worship for Muslims around the world.
Overall, Global Treasures: Blue Mosque - Sultan Ahmed Mosque is a fascinating documentary that offers a captivating look at one of the world's most beautiful mosques. The documentary's stunning visuals and insightful commentary make it a must-see for anyone interested in Islamic art, history, and culture.
