Taksim Mosque

This is the best selection of the photographs I took last late afternoon into the evening. The focus is on Taksim Square, the Republic Monument, and the Taksim Mosque.

Taksim Mosque is a prominent complex in Taksim Square and stands as a testament to contemporary design and religious significance. Designed by Turkish architects in the Art Deco style, the mosque can accommodate up to 3,000 worshippers indoors and a total of 4,000. Construction began on February 17, 2017, and the mosque was inaugurated on May 28, 2021, after four years of meticulous work.

The Taksim Republic Monument, erected in 1928, is a centerpiece of Taksim Square and one of Istanbul's most photographed landmarks. This monument commemorates the foundation of the Turkish Republic in 1923 and is a focal point for various public events, including celebrations, protests, and official ceremonies. Taksim Square, where the monument stands, is also the starting point of İstiklal Avenue, Istanbul's most popular pedestrian street, which sees around three million visitors daily.

The Republic Monument, or Taksim Cumhuriyet Anıtı, features a sculptural group that honors the founders of the Turkish Republic and other symbolic figures, including representations of the Soviet Union's military aid during the Turkish War of Independence (1919-1923). The monument has two sides: one depicting the Turkish War of Independence and the other symbolizing the modern Turkish Republic, encapsulating the nation's journey from conflict to statehood.

I was particularly thrilled that TURKEY Tourism USA used one of my shots on their website. Look at the one with the graphics pasted on the image. That's the one they used on their website.