The Hagia Sophia Museum in Istanbul is a remarkable historical landmark that shouldn't be missed. This ancient church, which later became a mosque, is just a short walk from the equally impressive Blue Mosque. The exterior and interior of the Hagia Sophia are truly breathtaking, with its grand domes and stunning mosaics.
While the inside may not be as perfectly maintained as some other mosques, it still exudes a sense of calm and peace. However, the presence of crowd control barriers can spoil the effect a bit. It is recommended to visit around 9pm when it is nearly empty and no ticket, queue, or guide is required.
One unique aspect of the Hagia Sophia is its ability to provide a magical experience during the evening call to prayer, especially when combined with the Blue Mosque opposite. The architectural beauty of this mosque is complemented by its cleanliness and spiritual atmosphere. Inside, you'll find astonishing lamps, icons, and saintly places.
This architectural marvel is not only a symbol of Istanbul's rich heritage and history but also a testament to the fusion of Byzantine and Ottoman influences. Stepping inside the Hagia Sophia is like entering a world of cultural and religious significance. Its grandeur and intricate design make it a UNESCO World Heritage Site that leaves visitors in awe. The fact that it still preserves the paintings of Jesus Christ and Mary, despite being a mosque, deserves respect.
The sheer size and scale of the Hagia Sophia Mosque are awe-inspiring. The blend of Byzantine and Islamic styles in its architecture, along with its intricate details and mosaics, showcase the incredible craftsmanship involved in its creation. Climbing to the upper gallery provides stunning panoramic views of Istanbul, adding to the overall experience.
However, it's important to note that there are certain rules to follow when visiting the mosque. Women must cover their hair and legs, while men and women should not wear shorts. The wait time to enter during touristy seasons can range from 35-40 minutes, but it is definitely worth it.
Overall, the Hagia Sophia Mosque is a must-visit destination in Istanbul. Its historical significance, timeless beauty, and cultural significance make it a truly unforgettable experience.
Address:
Sultan Ahmet, Ayasofya Meydanı No:1
Phone:
+90 212 522 17 50
Comment
06.09.23
Ancient church that became a mosque after the fall of Constantinople centuries ago. A short walk from the equally impressive Blue Mosque . Fantastic.. Read more » inside and out. Free admission. Women must cover hair and shoulders. Shorts not allowed for men for men or women. Wait time averages about 35-40 minutes in the touristy seasons, but is worth it. Have fun!
14.08.23
inside is massive, calm, peaceful.
it's not entirely beautiful inside as it was a museum and wasn't maintained perfectly i think like the other mosqu.. Read more »es I saw.
Also the presence of so many crowd control barriers spoils the effect a bit.
go around 9pm and it will be nearly empty, no ticket, queue or guide required.
make sure to be outside for the evening call to prayer from here and the blue mosque opposite like a question and answer - it's magical.
10.08.23
This mosque is very attractive and beautiful created. cleaned and spiritual. when you will go inside please follow the rule and take off your shoes, n.. Read more »earby is storage places where you can put it. inside of this mosque is astonishing lamps, icons and saint places
29.07.23
What an awesome and inspiring historical landmark with such a beautiful landscape Hagia Sophia is an incredible architectural marvel and a symbol of I.. Read more »stanbul's rich heritage and history. Its history, grand domes, stunning mosaics, and intricate design showcase a fusion of Byzantine and Ottoman influences as Stepping inside, one is transported to a world of cultural and religious significance. A modern UNESCO World Heritage Site that encapsulates the essence of Istanbul's heritage and leaves visitors in awe. A must-visit destination for its historical significance and timeless beauty. I respect that they kept the paintings of Jesus Christ and Mary even though it is not part of Islam ☪️
20.06.23
Hagia Sophia is an architectural marvel and a symbol of Istanbul's rich history. Its grand domes, stunning mosaics, and intricate design showcase a fu.. Read more »sion of Byzantine and Ottoman influences. Stepping inside, one is transported to a world of cultural and religious significance. A UNESCO World Heritage Site that encapsulates the essence of Istanbul's heritage and leaves visitors in awe. A must-visit destination for its historical significance and timeless beauty. I respect that they kept the paintings of Jesus Christ and Mary even though it is not part of Islam.
22.03.23
I had the pleasure of visiting Hagia Sophia Mosque in Istanbul, and it was an experience I will never forget. This architectural marvel is truly awe-i.. Read more »nspiring, and the sheer size and scale of the building is breathtaking.
The history of Hagia Sophia is fascinating, and the architecture is a perfect blend of Byzantine and Islamic styles. The intricate details, intricate mosaics, and beautiful calligraphy add to the grandeur of the building, and it's impossible not to be impressed by the incredible craftsmanship that went into creating this masterpiece.
One of the highlights of my visit was climbing to the upper gallery and taking in the stunning panoramic views of Istanbul. The peaceful atmosphere of the mosque made it a perfect place to reflect and appreciate the beauty of the surroundings.
I highly recommend visiting Hagia Sophia Mosque to anyone visiting Istanbul. It's truly a one-of-a-kind attraction that shouldn't be missed. The mosque is a testament to the ingenuity and creativity of humanity, and I feel fortunate to have had the opportunity to witness it in person.
27.01.23
Hagia Sophia is one of the most important Mosques in İstanbul.
This is the second time that my husband and I visit this magnificent place!
This mosque.. Read more » has a historic and religious significance. Once was the largest eastern Roman Church. Later was a museum, and since a Turkish top court on July of 2020 reversed the 1934 Cabinet decree which turned Hagia Sophia Mosque into a museum, it has become again in a Mosque.
The size of this mosque is enormous and it's interior is so beautiful!
As a tourist is important to know that it is necessary to take off the shoes. Women must cover their hair. They must cover also their legs. Therefore, it is recommended to wear a long skirt or pants. Shoes must be removed before entering. During pray hours, tourists must
leave the prayer area. I really recommend to visit this magnificent mosque!! It is extraordinary!
29.12.22
This is a beautiful and must-visit place in Istanbul. Please have enough time in hand to go around this place. First of all, there is a queue to enter.. Read more » this place and it is mandatory to cover heads for ladies.
The place has a history to it and the architecture is amazing, with big chandeliers, doors, and paintings on the wall. If possible please visit this place with a tour guide to understand its history of this place better. You are allowed to click pictures inside the place. You can enjoy sweet corn and bread when you are in line.
23.11.22
This is one of the most beautiful buildings I've ever been in (partly because I'm a big history nerd, plus I particularly enjoy religious buildings). .. Read more »The architecture and interior itself is incredibly impressive, with the high ceiling, the dome and low-hanging chandeliers. However, what made the deepest impression on me was the atmosphere. The carpet invited people to sit directly on the floor, making it a very social, almost communal space, like an indoor park. The acoustics made it a lively, but not a noisy space. Don't miss this wonderful experience when in Istanbul. Oh and entry is free ?
23.10.22
I haven't got the vocabulary to describe the magnificence of this building. So beautiful and elegant. Please visit if you are in Istanbul. Not to be m.. Read more »issed.
Especially if around prayer time It is such a nice feeling to hear the call to prayer echo in this glorious structure.
The queue to get in can be long, but don't let this put you off. No visit to Istanbul is complete without seeing the Hagia Sophia!
06.08.22
Having been here 11 years ago as a museum and back again as a mosque, and as a non-Muslim foreign tourist, I strongly prefer its current incarnation. .. Read more »When it was a museum, it charged a ticket and the line at the ticket office was almost an hour long. Now it's free and there is hardly a line (no need to line up for ticket). Other than periodic renovations and the introduction of carpets, from regular sightseeing perspective nothing really changed. I really appreciate Hagia Sophia for accommodating both to Muslims (many of whom want to worship in this sacred place) as well as enhancing non-Muslim tourist experience.
26.07.22
Absolutely stunning and must-go if you’re in Istanbul. Entrance was free (i went on a Friday, not sure about other days). I quickly saw the inside of .. Read more »the mosque then visited the tombs in the other buildings, and it took me 30 minutes. You can then see the Blue Mosque and explore the area. It’s very historical, lively, and just overall lovely.
21.07.22
Such an incredible church. It's grandeur is clear from the moment you set eyes on it. Going inside is one of the most memorable experiences of my life.. Read more ». It is pretty sad to see so many people to try and justify, or even applaud the decision to make this beautiful church into a mosque. Even as a museum it isn't what it was meant to be and what it was built for by the Greeks of the eastern Roman empire.
31.05.22
My second time in Istanbul to visit this beautiful place and it never disappoints! So much history in a single structure! The restoration in conversio.. Read more »n from church to mosque is stunning! Admission is free, but lineups are very long since the pandemic!
Be sure to respect the sanctity of the place, and follow directions when security tells you to cover your head and body (for women who are uncovered during the hot summer months).
21.04.22
Breathtaking place. We went there during a prayer session and we were hesitant that we'd be disturbing the folks. But, everyone was friendly and recog.. Read more »nised us that we visitors wouldn't be disturbing them.
Some even offered to click pictures of us mid-prayer which was surprising but well appreciated.
The history of the mosque was also astonishing and the way the place has been maintained over the years is simply amazing. I wish I had visited this place during the day. I'd have loved to see the exteriors better too.
25.03.22
One magnificent construction. You feel you are wrapped up by history here. A holy place that holds up the prayers of millions of people. This building.. Read more » looks great both by day and by night. Very nicely preserved and serves its purpose to so many.
An iconic spot and a landmark of Istanbul. A combination of what cannot be combined.
16.03.22
I've been to this monument at several occasions in my life. First, I visited the Hagia Sophia over a decade ago, when I visited Istanbul. During those.. Read more » times, this monument was a museum, as it was converted into a museum from a mosque. Recently, the Hagia Sophia has been converted back to a mosque, whilst it remains easily accessible to people of all or no religions. Moreover, it is now freely accessible, without an entrance fee, which used to be expensive for many visitors whilst this monument was a museum.
With that said, the Hagia Sophia welcomes everyone to witness one of the oldest and strong standing structures that has witnessed over 16 centuries of world history symbolizing the historic Constantinople (
today's İstanbul) throughout the age of empires.
01.03.22
A bucket list experience that exceeded my expectations. Hagia Sophia is a working mosque and truly is a special place for people of the Muslim faith. .. Read more »I am not Muslim but experienced genuine awe upon entering. Words and pictures can try to describe the beauty, architecture, detail, and sheer size of the building but it really must be experienced in real life. I am humbled and amazed at the majesty of this site.
Admission is free. Women must wear a headscarf or other cover. If you do not have one they are for sale right by the entry doors. Men and women must be modestly dressed. You know what that means so you will not be able to negotiate the point at the door. if you are wearing a skirt that would raise eyebrows when bent over for Muslim prayer you will be denied entry. Shorts are not allowed. The Mosque may be closed for periods during the day for prayers / religious services. There is an entry hall where shoes must be removed, then you enter the main hall (where I stood like a tourist trying to take it all in).
The Hagia Sophia is a must-see!
23.02.22
One magnificent construction. You feel you are wrapped up by history here. A holy place that holds up the prayers of millions of people. This building.. Read more » looks great both by day and by night. Very nicely preserved and serves its purpose to so many.
An iconic spot and a landmark of Istanbul. A combination of what cannot be combined.
30.11.21
Hagia Sophia is a beautiful piece of art and It has an amazing structure with amazing interior paintings with gold. There is a long queue always and y.. Read more »ou must have a head cover or umbrella for sun.
Nice place, very much crowded but well managed. People love to spend time here and I found the place very neat and clean.
Located in a prime spot in old Istanbul city. Has many tourist attractions in the vicinity like Blue Mosque and Cistern Basilica, nearby distance.
Entry charge is 40 Lira. One can visit the upper floors of the museum also. It's a unique experience in whole life to witness this. One can invest in the audio guide which gave short informative summaries. The sheer size, design and colour plus the age of what you are seeing is awesome. Beautiful mosaics on every wall is incredible.
Recently, announced it's converted to a mosque.
05.09.21
Genius ingenuity and art work come together. Through out the years it was church and turned into museum then mosque. It was good that we went with a l.. Read more »ocal tour guide to learn more about each of this landmark’s historical event. Bring your scarf and ensure covering yourself when joining into the place.
04.08.21
2015: The Hagia Sophia - Perfect Example of SECULARISM, a church, then a mosque and now a museum with all artifacts.
2021: Hagia Sophia is a great ar.. Read more »chitectural beauty and an important monument both for Byzantine and for Ottoman Empires. Once a church, later a mosque, and now a museum at the Turkish Republic, Hagia Sophia has always been the precious of its time. The mystical city Istanbul hosted many civilizations since centuries, of which Byzantium and Ottoman Empires were both the most famous ones. The city today carries the characteristics of these two different cultures and surely Hagia Sophia is a perfect synthesis where one can observe both Ottoman and Byzantium effects under one great dome.
27.07.21
Stunning, serene and soothing... if you arrive in the morning before the crowds - otherwise just stunning!
An incredible building with an equally impr.. Read more »essive history. Unfortunately large parts of the building are undergoing renovation at the moment (summer 2021) so the upper floor is closed, but there is plenty to see anyway, from the mosaics to giant marble jugs with fascinating stories behind each and every detail.
If you don't use a tour guide (there will be some outside touting for business), make sure to read up before going in, or at least have a written guide ready to follow.
17.02.21
One of the Perfect places in Istanbul... I guess it doesn't wrong that here is like a meeting point for all religions. You wouldn't stop yourself to t.. Read more »ake photos. Before to visit here you need some money, but now you can visit here free. Prepare your phone or photo machine , there are best landscapes here. Have a good journey! ?
13.01.21
A must see destination when visiting Istanbul! It was a breathtaking place with rich culture and history! The beauty of the murals and the display of .. Read more »its significance was fascinating! There is a place were you can go up the stairs on the west side of it and it takes you out in a different location! Honestly it seemed like the Hogwarts of Turkey (for all of my Harry Potter fans). This is definitely a must see place!
01.01.21
I felt kinda sad when I heard the news that they converted it to mosque but I think it should've been left in a previous neutral state as a museum. Ne.. Read more »ither mosque nor church just something that can be equally sacred for everyone.
Given its history, I can understand its value and significance but I don't think that its status is something that should be played around with every other century to see if it looks better as a church, museum or a mosque.
Istanbul is such a beautiful, fantastic and historic city that I adore. It has no shortage of tourist attractions and especially mosques that are on every street corner so why add another one???
31.12.20
I felt kinda sad when I heard the news that they converted it to mosque but I think it should've been left in a previous neutral state as a museum. Ne.. Read more »ither mosque nor church just something that can be equally sacred for everyone.
Given its history, I can understand its value and significance but I don't think that its status is something that should be played around with every other century.
Istanbul is such a beautiful, fantastic and historic city that I adore. It has no shortage of tourist attractions and especially mosques that are on every street corner so why add another one???
24.11.20
Before you could only enter Aya Sophia when you bought a museum ticket but this all changed in July 2020 when they opened it as an actual mosque where.. Read more » people can pray.
It is hard to describe, but I really adore this place. I went 3 times in a week just to admire the fantastic and authentic interior, it just left me speechless every single time.
But please, respect the rules and people who pray. I saw many people just going inside with shoes on or taking off their head cover when in the mosque, be respectful or don't even bother coming here.
11.11.20
Breath taking museum, everything has a rich meaning.
It was everything that I read about and what I had expected.
I booked a tour, which was amazing.. Read more ». The tour guide had an Indepth understanding of the museum. It's a must see.
Go to a restaurant called the Seven Hills for amazing terrace pics. They allow people to take pictures without having to eat in the restaurant.
25.10.20
Hagia Sophia is a beautiful piece of art and It has an amazing structure with amazing interior paintings with gold. There is a long queue always and y.. Read more »ou must have a head cover or umbrella for sun.
Nice place, very much crowded but well managed. People love to spend time here and I found the place very neat and clean.
Located in a prime spot in old Istanbul city. Has many tourist attractions in the vicinity like Blue Mosque and Cistern Basilica, nearby distance.
Entry charge is 40 Lira. One can visit the upper floors of the museum also. It's a unique experience in whole life to witness this. One can invest in the audio guide which gave short informative summaries. The sheer size, design and colour plus the age of what you are seeing is awesome.
Recently, announced it's converted to a mosque.
07.10.20
It's really amazing to see something do monumental that withstood the test of time for 1500 years. It's a shame that beautiful marble floors are now c.. Read more »overed with carpet since this, once greatest church in the world, was yet again converted to the mosque. Take note to avoid prayer time to enter and you will need to take your shoes off so it would be good to carry plastic feet covers.
01.10.20
Absolutely breathtaking! Most beautiful structure I have seen. Must visit!
27.09.20
It’s really beautiful and magnificent... but unfortunately at the moment all christian paintings are covered with some banners. Also the upper floors .. Read more »are closed. I respect all religions but let’s not forget this is a really important monument both for christians and muslims.
19.09.20
Yesterday I visited Hagia Sophia when it was functioning as a mosque, and I was pretty disappointed as most parts of the building were closed to visit.. Read more »ors. There is only accessible place and it's just a space for prayer. All mosaics were covered , although prayer time was over. Honestly I was lucky to visit Hagia Sophia several times before, when it was a museum. I love this incredible place, but after yesterday experience I prefer HS to remain a museum. It's better to pay a museum fee with access to all historically important parts of the building, than just spend time waiting for entrance for nothing.
15.09.20
One of the most spiritually moving historical sites of all time. I've been here recently in September of 2020 after the site has been converted from a.. Read more » museum to a masjid (mosque). All of the Masājid (mosques) here in Turkey have a common architectural design, influenced by the Byzantines. Using 3 words to describe this site: aesthetic, unique, and valuable. My favorite parts about praying here (and in other sites) were when the Holy Qur'ān would be recited, when the remembrance of Allāh (God) and His Messenger Muḥammad (ﷺ - peace and blessings be upon him) would be mentioned, and when we would all commence a Du'ā' (supplication) silently after the recitations. In the morning prayer on Fridays, the Imām (religious leader) would have everyone recite along with him the salutations upon the Messenger Muḥammad (ﷺ - peace and blessings be upon him), which I found eminently meditative and serene. Definitely a place worth visiting habitually.
14.09.20
Absolutely overwhelming! FREE OF CHARGE.
If you do some reserach before visiting you will really understand why Ayasofya is famous and the heart of Is.. Read more »tambul and how in 1453 was converted to a mosque by the emperor. I felt so good by entering the mosque I can't express in words my feelings & it is very clean and safe place to go as everybody has to be checked by the police (ladies by lady police) before entering the area (it has 4, 5 entrances) the police is everywhere outside the mosque no matter which entrance you enter from. For the safety of everyone and keep the historical premises safe ? and everywhere in Ayasofya. There is so much staff to watch the safety of visitors and guide them. Even I saw "Fatih Beledyesi" staff giving free water containers outside the gate of Ayasofya to the public.
For this thing I really appreciate turkish authorities! When I visited in August 2020 it was being partially restored from inside and the areas were closed to visitors. However, I could figure out by looking at the mosque that they really looked after for around 600 years that's why we still can visit. It is open to everyone no matter what religion you have you will not be turned out.
4.9 / 14
