Arap Mosque

About this place

Arap Camii is one of Istanbul’s most unusual historic mosques, believed to occupy a former medieval church built by Genoese communities in Galata and later converted into a mosque after the Ottoman conquest. Its architecture stands apart from classical Ottoman mosque design, with a basilical plan, pointed-arch details, and a square bell-tower-like structure adapted into a minaret. The building reflects layers of Latin, Byzantine, and Ottoman history, making it a rare monument of the city’s multicultural past. Today it remains an active place of worship as well as an important landmark near the Golden Horn.

Getting there: The nearest stop is Karaköy Tram Stop on the T1 line, about 650 m away, around 8–10 minutes on foot. Şişhane Metro Station is also reachable at roughly 900 m, about 12 minutes walking downhill toward Azapkapı.

Note: As this is an active mosque, visitors should dress modestly; women are advised to cover their hair, and shoulders and knees should be covered for all. Avoid visiting during prayer times, especially Friday noon prayer, when access for sightseeing may be limited.

Plan your visit

Visit duration

30 minutes

Tickets

Free admission.

Address

Azapkapı, 34420 Beyoğlu/İstanbul, Türkiye

Opening hours

• Friday: Closed
• Monday: Closed
• Sunday: Closed
• Tuesday: Closed
• Saturday: Closed
• Thursday: Closed
• Wednesday: Closed