Final answer:
The Mosque of Selim II features a massive central dome, slender corner minarets, and intricate decorative work with calligraphy and geometric patterns, highlighting its Ottoman architectural grandeur.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Mosque of Selim II, designed by the famous architect Mimar Sinan, is distinguished by several striking visual characteristics that illustrate the grandeur of Ottoman architecture. Among these features are its massive central dome, which dominates the skyline, and the slender minarets that rise conspicuously at each corner of the mosque’s structure. Another key visual element is the intricate decorative work that adorns both the interior and exterior of the mosque, which often includes elaborate calligraphic inscriptions, geometric patterns, and tile-work. These elements are not only aesthetically pleasing but also serve to emphasize the mosque's function as a place of worship and its cultural significance.
One defining aspect of the Mosque of Selim II is the emphasis on a central-plan structure, rather than the traditional longitudinal design prevalent in many earlier mosques. This central-plan emphasizes the large dome, supported by half-domes, piers, and columns, creating a visually harmonious and balanced space. The mosque’s dome is particularly noteworthy, as it was an architectural achievement intended to surpass the scale of the earlier Hagia Sophia, reflecting the ambition and ingenuity of Ottoman architects at the time.