The mosque is constructed during the reign of Selim II in 1568-1574. It's a peak of Islamic architecture and a masterpiece of royal architect Sinan. The size of the dome and the construction make it a great achievement in engineering for its time. The four tall minarets at the corners form the grand exterior of the mosque, making it the city’s most prominent landmark. The varied materials and techniques used in the artistic decoration of the mosque make it one of the finest examples of the architecture of this time. The complex also includes two medreses (religious academies), a primary school and a bazaar.