Three architectural traditions
Ottoman mosque (Istanbul, Sarajevo, Sofia) — domed, multiple half-domes, slim pencil minarets. Andalusian mosque (Cordoba, Granada) — horseshoe arches, courtyards, woven decoration. Both have living traditions in cities below.
Istanbul
Istanbul the global capital. Süleymaniye (Sinan's masterpiece, 1557), Sultan Ahmed (Blue Mosque), Hagia Sophia (originally cathedral, now mosque again), Yeni Cami (Eminönü), Rüstem Pasha (tile masterwork), Şehzade. Free to visit outside prayer times. Sultanahmet base.
Cordoba
Cordoba the Mezquita — 8th–10th century mosque expanded into one of the largest in the medieval world, now a cathedral with the mosque architecture intact. Free entry weekday mornings 8:30–9:30; otherwise €13. UNESCO. Day-trip from Sevilla.
Granada
Granada Alhambra is technically a palace complex but contains mosque architecture (Mexuar, Comares Hall arches). The actual Granada Grand Mosque (Mezquita Mayor de Granada, 2003) is modern but follows Andalusian forms.
Sarajevo
Sarajevo Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque (1531, Ottoman classical). Bosnia's Ottoman heritage produced dozens of mosques in Sarajevo and surrounding Bosnia — Travnik, Mostar. Free entry; modest dress required.
Sofia
Sofia Banya Bashi Mosque (1576, Ottoman). One of the few surviving Ottoman mosques in Bulgaria — most demolished post-Independence. Modest scale but historically important.
Visitor etiquette
Remove shoes at entry. Cover legs (men and women) and head (women) — scarves often provided. Visit outside the five daily prayer times. Friday afternoons closed to visitors. Don't take photos of worshipping people.
Strategy
Combined Istanbul mosque-touring 2–3 hours per cluster. Cordoba Mezquita best 8:30–9:30 (free, empty) or 4:30pm onward. Pilgrimage guide for the broader religious travel companion.