Hagia Sophia is one of the most visited and popular tourist attractions in Turkey. It is a historical site and a museum that has been around for over a thousand years. The Hagia Sophia was originally built as a Christian basilica in the sixth century, but it was later converted into a mosque in the fifteenth century. The Hagia Sophia is considered to be one of the greatest architectural achievements of the Byzantine Empire. Today, it is a popular destination for tourists and is open to visitors from all over the world.
History of Hagia Sophia
The Hagia Sophia was built by the Byzantine Emperor Justinian I in the sixth century. It was designed by two Greek architects, Isidore of Miletus and Anthemius of Tralles. The Hagia Sophia was built to be a grand Christian basilica and it served as the seat of the Patriarch of Constantinople. The Hagia Sophia was also the center of Christian worship in Constantinople. The Hagia Sophia remained as a church until the fifteenth century, when it was converted into a mosque by the Ottoman Sultan Mehmed II.
Features of Hagia Sophia
The Hagia Sophia is an impressive structure, with a large dome and four minarets. Inside, there are two levels and the interior is adorned with beautiful mosaics and frescoes. The Hagia Sophia is also home to a number of important artifacts, including the Virgin Mary’s belt and the tombs of several Byzantine emperors. The Hagia Sophia also has a museum with a number of artifacts from its long history.
Visiting Hagia Sophia
Visiting Hagia Sophia is a must for any traveler to Istanbul. The Hagia Sophia is open to visitors every day from 9:00am to 7:00pm. The admission fee is 25 Turkish liras, which is around $5 USD. Visitors can also take guided tours of the Hagia Sophia, which are available in a number of languages.
Tips for Visiting Hagia Sophia
- Wear comfortable shoes, as there is a lot of walking involved.
- Bring a camera, as there are many beautiful photo opportunities.
- Be respectful of the historical site, as it is a place of worship.
- Plan your visit in advance, as the lines to get in can be long.
The Hagia Sophia is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Turkey and is a must-see for any traveler. It is a beautiful and impressive structure that is steeped in history and is home to a number of important artifacts. Visiting Hagia Sophia is a great way to learn about the history of Istanbul and the Byzantine Empire.