05-04-2021 - History

History of Hagia Sophia

Let's take a closer look at Hagia Sophia. The church of the Divine Knowledge, also known as Ayasofya in Turkish, is a significant Byzantine historical place in Istanbul and one of the world's great monuments.

Hagia Sophia was built as a church in the 6th century under the leadership of the Byzantine emperor Justinian. Justinian requested that the building be constructed on top of other church ruins that had been built several times during the Justinian emperor period, and it took 5 years to finish. It was a temple, a museum in Istanbul, and then a mosque again through the years. Justinian sought to demonstrate his hegemony over his Roman forefathers by erecting an unrivaled architectural structure. With Islamic minarets and inscriptions, as well as lavish mosaics of Christianity, the architecture reflects the religious developments that have occurred in the region over time.

Istanbul is a large city with a variety of district articles describing attractions, bars, nightlife, and lodging options, as well as being one of the most popular cities for medical care in Istanbul. Istanbul is the most populous city in Turkey, as well as the country's cultural and financial capital.;

With its long and rich history at the center of empires dating back to the Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman periods, Istanbul offers amazing historical and religious sites to visit. The most significant archaeological areas are clustered around Sultanahmet Square and include Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, Basilica Cistern, and Blue Mosque.

Choose Your Pass

Skip-the-Line Instant Access to 100+ Attractions including Guided Tours, Dinner Cruise, Airport Transfers and more...Save up to 70% and enjoy!

5 Day Pass

Adult

€370 €219

Child

€300 €189
SELECT
7 Day Pass

Adult

€420 €249

Child

€340 €209
SELECT
10 Day Pass

Adult

€475 €299

Child

€390 €259
SELECT
1 Day Pass

Adult

€200 €119

Child

€155 €99
SELECT
2 Day Pass

Adult

€235 €149

Child

€185 €119
SELECT
3 Day Pass

Adult

€285 €179

Child

€225 €149
SELECT
4 Day Pass

Adult

€335 €199

Child

€270 €169
SELECT
2 Days Pass
Pass
Quantity
Total

Adult(8+)

Child(4-7)

€0

Order Summery
Sale Discount
-€10

Order Total

€135

Hagia Sophia As a World Heritage Site

In the 1980s, the Hagia Sophia was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site in Istanbul. It has been one of Istanbul's most popular tourist attractions, with nearly four million tourists last year; for nearly a millennium after its completion, it was the largest cathedral in all of Christendom. It served as a center of religious, political, and artistic life for the Byzantine world, and it has provided numerous valuable scholarly insights into the period. The Ottomans converted it into a mosque after Sultan Mehmet. It has been a major place of Muslim worship since then. The most important things to do in Istanbul Hagia Sophia are to first admire the wonderful and breathtaking architecture of the Hagia Sophia's façade, where the massive dome and four minarets serve as a wonderful backdrop for photographs. 

From the inside, you can admire the Byzantine mosaics that adorn the Hagia Sophia's ceiling, as well as a selection of the world's most exquisite architectural and archaeological masterpieces chandeliers, and lighting units dating back to ancient historical times.

To build the cathedral, marble, and ornamental stones were shipped from all over the world. The emperor used all of his wealth to decorate the structure, including marble in a number of colors and mosaics of gold, silver, glass, tiles, and colored stone pieces on the interior walls. The Hagia Sophia in Istanbul represents high importance and sanctity to its Muslim and Christian visitors alike, with its icons representing both religions.

Virgin Mary on the Hagia Sophia ceiling, the world of majesty, and the name of prophet Mouhammad, with gilded inscriptions on its walls, “Mihrab” and columns in the prayer square.

Also, you can visit the graves of the Ottoman Sultans attached to the building of the Hagia Sophia mosque, which represents the sanctity and high historical importance of the Turks.

After that, relax in Istanbul's green Gulhane Park near Hagia Sophia or visit one of the nearby attractions including the Hagia Sophia bath, Sultanahmet mosque, or Topkapi Museum

Does Istanbul Tourist Pass® Cover Grant Access to the Hagia Sophia Mosque?

Yes! Istanbul Tourist Pass® grants access to a guided tour of the Hagia Sophia Mosque. It also helps you save a huge amount of money, up to 70%! You can buy your Pass to access Istanbul’s most visited museums and have a piece of mind. Your tickets will be virtually available, so you will not have to wait in the ticket lines either. Enjoy Istanbul to the fullest with the Istanbul Tourist Pass® and book your Istanbul visit today!

Frequently Asked Questions

When was Hagia Sophia built?

Hagia Sophia was built in the 6th century under the leadership of Byzantine Emperor Justinian.

What purpose did Hagia Sophia serve initially?

Initially, Hagia Sophia served as a church during the Byzantine period.

How long did it take to complete the construction of Hagia Sophia?

The construction of Hagia Sophia took five years to finish.

How has Hagia Sophia transformed over the years?

Throughout the centuries, Hagia Sophia has served as a temple, a museum in Istanbul, and later as a mosque.

What architectural elements reflect the religious developments in Hagia Sophia?

The architecture includes Islamic minarets and inscriptions alongside lavish Christian mosaics, showcasing the diverse religious influences.

When was Hagia Sophia designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site?

In the 1980s, Hagia Sophia received the designation as a UNESCO World Heritage site.

How many tourists visit Hagia Sophia annually?

Nearly four million tourists visit Hagia Sophia each year.

Who converted Hagia Sophia into a mosque?

Sultan Mehmet of the Ottoman Empire converted Hagia Sophia into a mosque.

What significant archaeological areas are clustered around Sultanahmet Square?

Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, Basilica Cistern, and the Blue Mosque are clustered around Sultanahmet Square.

What religious icons are found inside Hagia Sophia?

Icons include representations of the Virgin Mary on the ceiling and inscriptions of Prophet Muhammad on the walls.


Union icon 2 Union icon 1
Travel aroud Istanbul freely with Public Transportation Card
Buy Your Card Now Buy & Save 40% with Istanbul Tourist Pass® with FREE Digital Public Transportation Guide

Latest Posts

21-02-2023

Most Popular Historic Mosques You Must Visit in Istanbul

Istanbul is one of the most culturally rich and diverse cities in the world thanks to its deep history which is comprised of many empires, cultures, and religions. Because of this, you can find numerous historically significant sites here, from churc...

06-03-2021

A Brief History of Galata Tower

Galata Tower, an architectural gem standing tall in Istanbul, proudly overlooks the bustling neighborhoods of "Beyoglu" and "Karakoy" from its strategic location. Its captivating allure, especially when illuminated by colorful lights at night, has ma...

22-10-2024

Live Like a Local in Istanbul: Explore the City's Hidden Wonders

Istanbul, a city that seamlessly blends ancient history with modern culture, is a living, breathing tapestry of colors, sounds, and experiences. From the bustling streets of Taksim to the serene waters of the Bosphorus, Istanbul offers something for ...

19-10-2022

Restaurants in Istanbul: Where to Eat in Istanbul Old Town

Istanbul is not only the meeting point of cultures but also of cuisines! There are various options to taste delicious food from all over the world in the city. While visiting the magnificent Hagia Sophia or taking great Instagram photo...

16-10-2022

Istanbul Branches of World-Famous Eateries

If one had but a single glance to give the world, one should gaze on Istanbul.  Alphonse de Lamartine   Istanbul is full of surprises in every corner. The city can surprise you with its colours, sounds, and amazing views as well as t...

14-10-2022

3 Best Nightclubs in Istanbul

Istanbul, a city full of zest, has so much to offer to its visitors from across the globe. Whether you're interested in its historic architecture, deep-rooted culture & heritage, delicious food, or the city's flashy nightlife, there's something f...

14-10-2022

4 Best Indian restaurants in Istanbul

Indian cuisine is widely loved across the globe for its rich ingredients, intoxicating aromas, and fresh blend of spices. Its historic staple diet consisting of whole-wheat flour, rice, and vegetables makes it unique and flavoursome. Travellers, espe...

08-09-2022

Where to Stay in Istanbul with Family

Where to stay in Istanbul with family You finally booked your flight, and are eager to see the beauty of Istanbul within days from your flight. For your trip here, you rightfully want to stay at one of the best hotels in Istanbul for families that w...

01-08-2022

August in Istanbul

What to do in August Dear guest, Istanbul lover-to-be! You finally arrived in one of the most popular cities around the world, we hope you throughly enjoy it! Whilst you just arrived, we have few recommendations and tips for making your experience e...

07-09-2022

Where to go in Istanbul with family

If you booked your flight and soon are coming to Istanbul with your children and wondering where to go in the city, we would like to let you know beforehand that there are plenty of great places to visit. Moreover, there are many places that are kid ...

4.8 out of 5 stars

Istanbul Tourist Pass® has an average rating of 4.8 /5 from 1710 reviews

Read all traveler reviews →
Attractions Prices
  Buy
Pass
Plan Save
More