Mimar Sinan, officially Koca Mimar Sinan Ağa (c. 1490–1588), is considered the greatest architect of the Ottoman Empire's classical period. He served as chief architect for three sultans: Suleiman I, Selim II, and Murat III. During his nearly 50-year career, he was responsible for the construction of more than 300 buildings, ranging from mosques and bridges to aqueducts and schools.
Born into a Christian family in Anatolia, Sinan was recruited at a young age for the Janissary Corps through the devşirme system. He began his career as a military engineer, quickly rising through the ranks. His experience building bridges and forts during military campaigns throughout the empire, including Baghdad and Egypt, gave him a unique practical knowledge of construction and engineering. In 1538, he was appointed chief architect of the court, a position he held until his death.
Major Works Mimar Sinan's architectural legacy is immense and is often divided into three phases: Apprenticeship: The Şehzade Mosque, Istanbul. Sinan considered this mosque, built in memory of the deceased …