Hagia Sophia Mosque

Hagia Sophia Mosque, also known as the Hagia Sophia Mosque, is a stunning architectural masterpiece located in Istanbul, Turkey. 

The building has a long and fascinating history, serving as a cathedral, mosque, and museum. It is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Turkey's most popular tourist attractions.

Hagia Sophia was initially built as a Byzantine cathedral in the sixth century AD. 

It was commissioned by the Byzantine Emperor Justinian I and designed by two famous architects, Anthemius of Tralles and Isidorus of Miletus. 

The construction of the building was a gigantic undertaking, which took more than five years to complete and required the efforts of thousands of workers.

Upon its completion, the Aya Sophia Mosque was the largest cathedral in the world, and it quickly became a symbol of the Byzantine Empire's wealth and power. 

Learn about the most famous mosques in Istanbul

It was famous for its stunning architecture and elaborate decorations, including its massive dome, which remains one of the largest in the world.

1204 the Fourth Crusade occupied Istanbul, and Hagia Sophia was converted into a Roman Catholic cathedral. 

It remained a cathedral until 1261 when the Byzantine Empire regained control of the city, and the building was again used as an Eastern Orthodox cathedral.

In 1453, the Ottoman Empire conquered the Istanbul Valley and converted Hagia Sophia into a mosque. 

The Ottomans added minarets to the building and covered Christian mosaics with stucco. It remained a mosque until 1935 when the Republic of Turkey turned it into a museum.

Hagia Sophia Mosque now!

Today, Hagia Sophia is a mosque and one of Turkey's most popular tourist attractions. 

Visitors can explore the building's stunning architecture and elaborate decorations, including mosaics, frescoes, and marble carvings. 

The building's massive dome, at 55 meters (180 ft) high, is imposing and offers stunning city views.

In addition to its architectural and historical significance, Hagia Sophia is also an important cultural and religious site. It is a place of worship for Muslims and a pilgrimage for Christians. 

Furthermore, it symbolizes the city's multicultural history and is a testament to the harmony and coexistence that prevailed among the different religious and cultural groups in Istanbul.

All in all, the Aya Sophia Mosque is a must-visit destination for anyone visiting Istanbul. Its stunning architecture, rich history, and cultural significance make it a truly unique and unforgettable experience.