Conclusion

In conclusion, the Süleymaniye Mosque represents a lieux de memoire because of its strong cultural and historical ties with the city of Istanbul. Originally proposed by Suleiman the Magnificent, the mosque was envisioned to represent the grandeur of the Ottoman Empire. Through the architectural mastery of Mimar Sinan, the mosque was designed to combine elements from Byznatine and Islamic architecture. Completed in 1558 as the tallest structure in Istanbul, the Süleymaniye Mosque eventually began to deteriorate with the fall of the Ottoman Empire. Most recently, however, several city officials have made concerted efforts to restore the mosque and preserve it as a memory site for future generations. Through each of these historical phases (the vision, design, construction, deterioration, and eventual restoration), the Süleymaniye Mosque has unmistakably represented a lieux de memoire in the city of Istanbul.