Hagia Sophia
Hagia Sophia or “Ayasofya” as named by the Turks, is the icon of Istanbul. It was constructed during the rule of Justinian between 532-537 and is one of the unmatched icons of Byzantine art.
Between 1204-1261, Saint Sophia was the Pope’s church but In 1453 it was taken and converted into a mosque by the Ottoman Empire. The Ottomans enhanced the church with 4 minarets, a public area for dining and an Islamic school.
Located in Istanbul’s highest point, just next to the Blue Mosque in Sultanahmet, Hagia Sophia defines the scenic view of the Istanbul. Its 4 minarets and dome with diameter of more than 30 meters are the most iconic image of Istanbul.
The inside of Hagia Sophia is breathtaking, the dimensions of the primary hall (70*74 meters), monolithic columns, diffused lighting as well as the decorative huge medallions will certainly leave your mouth open.
On the basilica’s second floor you can find different mosaics of fantastic historic passion. The most prominent mosaic shows Emperor Constantine as well as Empress Zoe doing their worship.
In addition to mosaics, on the 2nd floor there is the tomb of Enrique Dándolo, Venetian duke who passed away in Constantinople in 1205.
