The Hagia Sophia is one of the world's most well-known mosques and boasts a long history and impressive construction that dates back more than 1,000 years. When you visit, you'll be able to explore its iconic architectural styles as well as the artistic expression inside that showcases some of the best that mosques have to offer. Plus, it's completely free to access.
Anyone looking to experience some of the most iconic attractions in Istanbul won't want to miss out on the Hagia Sophia. This mosque is what comes to mind when most people think of the city, and it's the central aspect of just about any Istanbul postcard. The value of this monument for travellers is in its history and architecture, which is some of the most influential in the city. Most visitors stay for about an hour or so, but you're welcome to stay longer as long as you don't interrupt prayer times.
Hagia Sophia in Istanbul - one of the highlights of 12 Best Things to Do in Istanbul and 10 Romantic Ideas for a Honeymoon in Istanbul (Read all about Istanbul here)
What are the highlights of Hagia Sophia in Istanbul?
The main highlight of the Hagia Sophia is its historical significance. It has reclaimed its status as the central mosque for the city. A lot of history happened around this mosque, and you can see some relics from it on display inside. Additionally, the architecture of the mosque is a sight to behold, as you can see several architectural styles expressed in the various additions made over the centuries.
When you visit the Hagia Sophia, you may want to spot as many of the unique elements and decorations as you can. You'll find quite a few that have been added throughout the centuries. For example, if you look in the spandrels of the bema, you'll be able to see mosaics of Gabriel and Michael. Alternatively, you can visit the Nice Door, which is the oldest architectural element in the church, dating back before the Common Era.
A brief history of Hagia Sophia in Istanbul
The Hagia Sophia was built between 532 and 537 as a cathedral under the orders of the Christian emperor Justinian I. It had the largest interior space of any church in existence at the time and was a shining example of what Byzantine architecture was capable of. Originally, it was an Eastern Orthodox cathedral, but the Fourth Crusade saw it temporarily turned into a Latin Catholic cathedral.
Constantinople fell to the Ottoman Empire in 1453, and the cathedral was subsequently converted into a mosque. It didn't take long for Hagia Sophia to become the central imperial mosque given the important role it played in history up to that point as an architectural masterpiece. In the early 20th century, it was closed as a mosque and used as a museum, but in 2020, it was converted back into a mosque.
What else is good to know about Hagia Sophia in Istanbul?
Before you visit Hagia Sophia, there are some factors you should keep in mind. Since it's a practising mosque, it's important to recognise that it closes several times a day for prayer. Non-Muslims are welcome to visit, but conservative dress must be maintained. That means no shorts or shoulderless tops. Women also have to wear headscarves, but don't worry if you don't have one, as you can borrow one at the main entrance to use during your visit.
Visiting the Hagia Sophia also puts you close to some other prominent landmarks in Istanbul. Topkapi Palace is located just to the north-east, while the Blue Mosque can be found to the south-west. This is also within walking distance of Sultanahmet Square.
Hagia Sophia in Istanbul
Location: Sultan Ahmet, Ayasofya Meydanı No:1, 34122 Fatih/İstanbul, Türkiye
Open: 24/7
Phone: +90 212 522 1750
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