Hagia sophia istanbul

Hagia Sophia in Istanbul is a monument that united centuries of Byzantine, Ottoman, and Turkish history, with its iconic dome and stunning mosaics.

About this subject

Hagia Sophia, located in Istanbul, Turkey, is one of the world's most iconic structures, blending Byzantine architecture with Ottoman influences. Built between 532 and 537 AD under Byzantine Emperor Justinian I, it served as an Eastern Orthodox cathedral for nearly a thousand years. Its main dome, 31 meters in diameter and 56 meters high, was an engineering marvel using pendentives to distribute weight. In 1453, after the Ottoman conquest of Constantinople, it was converted into a mosque, with the addition of minarets, a mihrab, and Islamic calligraphy. In 1935, under Mustafa Kemal Atatürk's secular government, it became a museum open to all. In 2020, a presidential decree reconverted it into a mosque, though it remains accessible to tourists outside prayer times. The structure houses Christian mosaics from the Byzantine era, such as the famous Deesis mosaic, alongside panels bearing the names of Allah, the Prophet Muhammad, and the first caliphs. In 1985, it was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, highlighting its significance as a testament to centuries of cultural and religious exchange. Its location in the historic Sultanahmet district makes it a central point for exploring Istanbul's rich history.

Frequently Asked Questions

When was Hagia Sophia built?

Hagia Sophia was built between 532 and 537 AD under Byzantine Emperor Justinian I in Constantinople (now Istanbul).

Why was Hagia Sophia converted back into a mosque in 2020?

In 2020, a Turkish government decree reclassified Hagia Sophia as a mosque after a court annulled its museum status, meeting demands from conservative religious groups.

Can tourists still visit Hagia Sophia?

Yes, Hagia Sophia is open to visitors outside prayer times, with free entry to the prayer area, though parts may be closed during prayers.