Your Ultimate Guide to Istanbul

AYASOFYA /ST.SOPHIA

Hagia Sophia (Ayasofya) is one of Istanbul’s most iconic landmarks, blending Byzantine and Ottoman architecture. Located in the heart of the historic Sultanahmet district, it now functions as both a mosque and a museum. The ground floor, accessible through the main entrance, is reserved for Muslim prayers, while the gallery section operates as a museum. Tourists enter through the back door near Topkapi Palace after purchasing a ticket for 25 EURO. Visitors are required to follow Islamic dress codes, with women needing a headscarf and modest clothing to enter. Its massive dome, towering minarets, and intricate mosaics make it a must-visit destination for history and architecture enthusiast

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History

Originally built as a church in 537 AD by the Byzantine Emperor Justinian I, Hagia Sophia was the largest cathedral in the world for nearly 1,000 years. After the Ottoman conquest of Constantinople in 1453, it was converted into a mosque by Sultan Mehmed II, who added minarets and Islamic elements. In 1935, it became a museum, symbolizing Turkey’s modernization efforts. However, in 2020, it was reconverted into a mosque while remaining open to tourists. Over the centuries, it has stood as a testament to architectural innovation and cultural fusion, attracting millions of visitors annually.

 

Visiting information :

Closed Days: Open everyday

Opening Hour of Ticket Offices: 09:00

Closing Hour of Ticket Offices: 18:00

Ticket prices : Ticket Price For Foreign Visitors: 25 EURO (updated in 25.12.2024)

Free for visitors aged 0-6.

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Tel :(0212) 522 17 50

Adress : No: 1 Sultanahmet/Fatih

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Visit Ayasofya's official website here

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ST.CHORA /KARIYE

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BASILICA'S CISTERN / YERABATAN

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