We are going to be in Istanbul in May and plan to visit all of the “must see” sites while there. I understand that out of respect you are required to remove your shoes and only go barefoot or wear socks while in The Blue Mosque. I have a neuroma in my foot that makes it very difficult to not have cushioning/support…. I don’t even go barefoot at all in my home.
What do people do in this instance? Is there some kind of footwear that is allowed that I can bring to slip on while touring inside?
I would "think" (but do confirm) that you would be able to wear some new (translation: very clean soles) soft house slippers (that you could choose to have thick cushioned soles). I think (and maybe someone more schooled in the culture can correct me) that the respect is to not bring dirt in from outside. It would also probably not hurt to have a letter from your doctor explaining your specific medical need (cushioned feet), as you oh so kindly say you have always dreamed of visiting the Blue Mosque.
People are people, and I cannot imagine the kindness not being extended to you.
Other option is to go in with just socks, then put on the new,clean slippers once you are well inside (and still have the doctor note on his/her letterhead). Also, pick a color that would not stand out, and maybe wear a very long skirt that day too (that you could later slip off if it is a hot day).
No doubt you will not be the first one needing medical accommodation.
Aren't there soled socks/slippers, that are entirely knit, up to the ankle? Go to Amazon and type in " sock slippers". It might be visually courteous to wear only one of them, and a plain sock on the good foot. Try at home to see if it affects your gait,
The purpose of removing shoes is not just respect but to keep the carpet clean for prayers. Whether your alternative foot covering is ok will depend on the person checking at the door of the mosque. Anything that has an obvious stiff sole on it probably won't fly, whether or not you have a medical note (and if you get one, you'll need to translate it to Turkish don't assume the guards will read English). As Tim suggested look for thick slipper socks and just wear one on your troublesome foot, a regular sock or bare foot on the other. You'll be walking on carpet not bare floors, so there will be a bit of cushion. I understand it might not be enough, but just noting it is not a hardwood floor or tile situation. You can always rest your foot by sitting on the floor (out of the way) or leaning against a pillar or the back wall while you take in the views.
Thank you, everyone, for your helpful replies. After reading your suggestions and giving it further thought I am currently planning to get some thick soled water shoes that are fairly sleek and then putting a pair of clean socks over them so that it will function better than only wearing socks but appear to only be socks.
Does that sound like a reasonable solution?
Patty I think it is worth a shot, but again it's going to be up to the person checking people coming through the door. As I recall the space to remove your shoes gets pretty crowded so try to move off to the side as best you can so you can do your footwear exchange. This video at the 6:42 mark shows the area you take off your shoes (note the benches). And I recommend bringing a small reusable grocery bag (like this) to transport your extra shoes/socks pre-mosque and to carry your walking shoes while walking through the mosque, so you don't have to leave your shoes in a cubby. Don't forget your head scarf as well, you'll also need it for Hagia Sophia.
And FWIW, I thought the Blue Mosque was beautiful but l thought the tiles in the Rustem Pasha Mosque were just as pretty without the crowds. It is near the spice bazaar.
Sounds like a good plan :) Just make sure the socks are thick enough and strong enough...........but, no doubt, you will give it a "trial run" at home.
The Mosque is a lovely place to visit.
