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Little Gem Rüstem Pasha was Süleyman the Magnificent's Grand Vezir (Prime Minister), son-in-law and friend. As the good subordinate to a powerful monarch, Rüstem knew not to challenge his sovereign's architectural ambitions: the great Süleymaniye Mosque, dominating the Istanbul skyline, is the city's largest. Rather, Rüstem had master Ottoman architect Mimar Sinan build his small mosque in the Süleymaniye's shadow, down the hill in the market district of Eminönü where Uzunçarsi Caddesi meets Hasircilar Sokak near the Egyptian Market. Small but beautiful. In place of grandeur and location, Rüstem chose exquisite quality in rich profusion: the interior of his mosque is covered in the finest Iznik faience (colored tiles) ever created. The Süleymaniye is an opulent jeweled crown. The Rüstem Pasha Mosque is a brooch glittering with small, fine diamonds. Don't miss it when you travel to Turkey. |
