When you’re in Istanbul, there are a few sights you absolutely can’t miss and the Hagia Sophia (Aya Sofya) is definitely one of them. This impressive building was constructed in the 6th century as the cathedral of Constantinople. For centuries, the Hagia Sophia was the largest church in the world. The moment you step inside, you can’t help but be amazed. The immense dome, the serene atmosphere, the light streaming through… you feel like a witness to fifteen centuries of history.
The construction of the Hagia Sophia
In 532, Byzantine emperor Justinian I came up with the idea to build a grand church. He appointed the Greek mathematicians Anthemius of Tralles and Isidore of Miletus to lead the project. They designed a structure with a central dome over 31 meters in diameter, resting on curved supports in the corners of the building. This was a revolutionary technique that would later be widely used in Byzantine architecture. Materials for the construction were sourced from various parts of the empire, including marble from Anatolia, Syria and North Africa. The building was completed in 537 and the Hagia Sophia was consecrated.
Different functions of the Hagia Sophia
Over the centuries, the Hagia Sophia has served various purposes, mainly due to shifts in power within the city. Until the mid-15th century, it was the cathedral of Constantinople and the religious heart of the Byzantine Empire. In 1453, the city was conquered by the Ottomans, who transformed the Hagia Sophia into a mosque. Christian elements were removed or covered, while minarets, a mihrab, and Islamic calligraphy were added. In 1935, under the secular rule of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the Hagia Sophia was repurposed as a museum. Since 2020, it has functioned again as a mosque, though it remains open to tourists.
Stunning mosaics and frescoes from the Byzantine era
Although the Hagia Sophia is once again used as a mosque, several impressive mosaics and frescoes from the Byzantine period are still on display. On the upper floor, you can see religious depictions of Christ, Mary and Byzantine emperors. These centuries-old artworks are made up of thousands of tiny stones and glass fragments. They offer a fascinating glimpse into the early Christian history of the building. Some mosaics and paintings are partially damaged or covered, but this contrast with the Islamic elements in the rest of the interior makes it even more special.
UNESCO World Heritage site
In 1985, the Hagia Sophia was added to UNESCO’s World Heritage list as part of Istanbul’s historic area. UNESCO recognizes the building as a world-famous masterpiece, thanks to its unique architecture and great cultural significance. The layered, rich history of the Hagia Sophia (from church to mosque, from mosque to museum, and now back to mosque) reflects the complex religious and political developments in the region.
Visiting the Hagia Sophia
As a tourist, you enter the Hagia Sophia through a separate side entrance that takes you directly to the upper floor (gallery). Here, you can walk all around and get a good view of the prayer hall below, where people often pray. The ground floor is reserved for Muslims who use the Hagia Sophia as a place of worship, especially during prayer times. Upstairs, you can explore at your own pace. The Byzantine mosaics and frescoes, the impressive dome, and the light that streams in almost magically make it a wonderful place for photography!
Tips for visiting the Hagia Sophia
Make sure your shoulders and knees are covered, and if you’re a woman, bring a scarf to cover your head. The Hagia Sophia can get very busy around midday, especially when cruise ships are in port. During my visit to Istanbul, I planned to visit the Hagia Sophia late in the morning, but the lines were enormous; even at the entrance for skip-the-line tickets. Fortunately, my skip-the-line ticket was valid all day. I returned late in the afternoon when it was much quieter and was able to enter almost immediately. Another advantage of visiting late in the day is the special light: the low sun sometimes creates beautiful beams that shine through the tall windows. A real treat if you enjoy photography! Tickets for the Hagia Sophia are easy to buy online in advance.
