Ayasofya/Hagia Sophia Guide

Hagia Sophia, one of the most prominent monuments taking place in Istanbul, Turkey, hosts millions of visitors every year. It became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1985.

Ayasofya has a long and diverse histoy that represents the changes that occurred throughout the history of Istanbul. From its construction in the 6th century until the Ottoman era in 1453, Hagia Sophia was originally used as a church. During the Ottoman period, it was converted into a mosque.

Due to its historical background, and passing through the hands of various cultures, both the exterior and interior of Hagia Sophia behold an incredible mixture of Islamic, Catholic, Paganist, and Orthodox architecture and art. This is what makes the Hagia Sophia so special, differentiating it from all the other mosques and churches that can be found in Istanbul.