Highlights Istanbul, Turkey

Hagia Sophia

The story of Istanbul’s iconic domed Hagia Sophia reflects the city's turbulent history. It was built in 537 AD as an Eastern Orthodox cathedral – the world's largest church at that time. It remained under Christian control until 1453, when the conquering Ottomans converted the building into a mosque. Under the secular policies of Turkey's first President, Atatürk, the mosque was closed in 1931 and the building reopened as a museum that now welcomes millions of visitors per year. Visual highlights include the Byzantine dome's ornate ceiling and the blend of Muslim and Christian artworks that clothe the interior.

address

Ayasofya Meydanı, 34122 Fatih, İstanbul

phone

+90 212 522 17 50

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