Hagia Sophia Verified listing

Hagia Sophia, located in Istanbul, Turkey, is one of the world’s most iconic architectural masterpieces and a symbol of both Byzantine and Ottoman heritage. Originally constructed as a Christian cathedral by Emperor Justinian I in 537 AD, it was the largest cathedral in the world for nearly a thousand years. Its massive dome, innovative engineering, and stunning mosaics represent a pinnacle of Byzantine architecture and art.

After the Ottoman conquest of Constantinople in 1453, Hagia Sophia was converted into a mosque by Sultan Mehmed II. Islamic features such as minarets, calligraphic panels, and a mihrab were added, blending Islamic artistic traditions with the original Christian design. For centuries, it served as one of the most important mosques in the Muslim world.

In 1935, the Turkish Republic transformed Hagia Sophia into a museum, opening it to visitors of all faiths and backgrounds. In 2020, it was reconverted into a mosque but remains open to tourists. Today, Hagia Sophia stands as a testament to the complex cultural and religious history of Istanbul, drawing millions of visitors fascinated by its architectural grandeur and rich legacy.