The building of the mausoleum was built in the 6th century as the baptistery of Hagia Sophia. The structure, covered with a dome, was erected on a square plan, and its interior has an octagonal base. After the fall of Constantinople in 1453, the baptistery served as a storehouse of oil lamps for many years.
Mausoleum of Sultan Selim II – This building is the oldest of the mausoleums erected in the courtyard during the Ottoman era. Its builder was the most famous Ottoman architect – Mimar Sinan. The mausoleum was built in 1577, on the octagonal plan, and covered with a double dome surrounded by sei-domes. The exterior of the mausoleum fulfilment with marble slabs and the interior is decorated with the famous Iznik tiles and calligraphy. The portico that leads to the interior of the building is supported by four columns. This mausoleum is considered the most elegant of all the tombs of the sultans of Istanbul.
