Free with this week’s AJ: new book on Ottoman architect Mimar Sinan

Launched at the Royal Academy last week, Mimar Sinan: The First Starchitect looks at the influence and work of Sinan (1489-1588), a contemporary of Palladio and Michelangelo.

Sinan built 146 mosques, 35 palaces, eight bridges, six aqueducts and three hospitals in his lifetime. Having strengthened and made additions to Hagia Sophia, he is also considered one of the first earthquake engineers.

Produced in association with Turkishceramics, the book is the product of an 18-month mission by former AJ editor Rory Olcayto to raise awareness of Sinan. 

Featuring commissioned scholarship and research by several leading critics, the book brings Sinan’s work to contemporary relevance through contributions from architects DSDHA, Feilden Clegg Bradley Studios, Rogers Stirk Harbour + Partners, Sam Jacob Studio, Ian Ritchie, Reiach and Hall and Bureau de Change, which were invited as part of the project to travel to Turkey to explore Sinan’s array of work.

This research will be further explored in an exhibition at the Building Centre from 18 May until 10 June, where study models will be displayed.

Sinan: The First Starchitect will be sent to subscribers with the 5 May issue of the AJ. To find out more about becoming a subscriber, click here.