Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque

Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque is among the most significant monuments in the history of world architecture and is part of the “Historic Areas of Istanbul,” which was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1985. Initially built in 360 by Emperor Constantius under the name *Megale Ekklesia*, the structure was destroyed and rebuilt twice. The present building was completed in 537 under the orders of Emperor Justinian, with the architects Anthemios of Tralles and Isidoros of Miletus. The structure stands out with its magnificent dome and architectural details. Hagia Sophia served as a church for 916 years before being converted into a mosque in 1453 following Sultan Mehmed the Conqueror’s conquest of Istanbul, and it was strengthened with various additions throughout the Ottoman period. Converted into a museum in 1934, Hagia Sophia regained its mosque status in 2020. One of the significant additions from the Ottoman period is the Sultan Mahmud I Library, built in 1739 and filled with valuable manuscripts. The building’s mosaics, both with and without figures, present exceptional examples of Eastern Roman art. Hagia Sophia offers visitors a unique historical and architectural experience by showcasing a remarkable synthesis of Eastern Roman and Ottoman heritage.