Aya Sofya (Hagia Sophia)
Istanbul
Copyright: Hasan Akbas/unsplash.comAya Sofya (Hagia Sophia)
Aya Sofya is a remarkable mixture of Christianity and Islam, a church with minarets and a mosque with pictures of the Virgin Mary (now covered up, unfortunately). The building is one of the wonders of world architecture. Its 32-metre main dome has stood firm since Aya Sofya's completion in 537 CE. Yes, that's almost one and a half thousand years ago. Originally constructed as a Christian church, the temple has since been a mosque, then a museum, and now once again acts as a mosque.
Useful Information
- Address: Sultan Ahmet Mah., Yerebatan Cad., Sultanahmet, Istanbul
- Phone: +90 212 522 17 50
- More Info: www.muze.gen.tr/muze-detay/ayasofya
- Address: Visitors are asked to comply with the modesty dress code when visiting this historic mosque: knees and shoulders covered, women must don headscarves.
- More Info: Entrance is free for everyone
- More Info: 27aafedda22667c6421648a281189a888fcc47b4
- Opening House: https://www.facebook.com/hagiasophiamuseum.org.tr/
Do & See
Istanbul is a vibrant city whose grandiose history is utterly fascinating. Take a stroll around the city and admire the amazing mosques, museums and the Great Bazaar, or even visit an authentic Turkish bath.