The mausoleum was designed and built by Ottoman architect Mimar Sinan in 1541 and still retains its original features.

It is located near the ferry port of the district of Beşiktaş on the European side of Istanbul where his fleet used to assemble.

There is also Istanbul Naval Museum and Barbaros Monument in the same square with tomb.

The Ottoman Navy used to visit the mausoleum and conduct ceremonies and offerings before major expeditions.

The tomb is open to public only in special occasions like July 1, for the Cabotage Festival, and on April 4, for the Memorial Day of Naval Martyrs.