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Hagia Sophia is probably Istanbul's best-known landmark. The soaring domes, peach colouring and minarets rise above the Old City attracting travellers from all over the world to come and learn from its 1500 year history. It was the heart of Byzantium and is the oldest building in the Sultanahmet area. The current structure is actually the third to be built on this site, as the previous two were destroyed by fire and riots.
There are centuries of Christian and Islamic history to discover with icons of both religions appearing side by side. There are also other interesting treasures to see including Viking alphabets, the Tomb of Princes, the "weeping" or "crying" column and more. Don't miss out on your guided tour of the Hagia Sophia!
The Hagia Sophia Istanbul's largest Eastern Roman Church has been fighting time for centuries with its creative construction, rich history, religious significance, and unique qualities. It is known to be built by “Mimar Sinan”. Hagia Sophia is probably Istanbul's best-known landmark. The soaring domes, peach coloring, and minarets rise above the Old City attracting travelers from all over the world to come and learn from its 1500-year history. It was the heart of Byzantium and is the oldest building in the Sultanahmet area. The current structure is actually the third to be built on this site, as the previous two were destroyed by fire and riots.
There are centuries of Christian and Islamic history to discover with icons of both religions appearing side by side. There are also other interesting treasures to see including Viking alphabets, the Tomb of Princes, the "weeping" or "crying" column, and more. The Hagia Sophia in Istanbul holds great significance and sanctity for both Muslim and Christian tourists, with icons able to represent both religions such as the Virgin Mary's inscription on the Hagia Sophia ceiling, the world of majesty, and the name of Prophet Mouhammad, with shimmied inscriptions on its walls, "Mihrab," and columns in the prayer square. Don't miss out on your guided tour of the Hagia Sophia!
The guided tours are performed in English. Remember to wear modest clothing (arms and legs covered). Women must cover their hair with a scarf. If you forget to bring your own scarf, you can buy one before you enter.
Hagia Sophia or Ayasofya could be considered the most visited attraction in Istanbul along with its neighbor topkapı palace museum. Hagia Sophia was built as a Christian church around 532. throughout time, Hagia Sophia has become a mosque, a museum, and a mosque again. the minarets and inscriptions of Islam illustrate the theological transformations that have occurred in the region throughout the centuries. after turkey's administrative court reversed a 1934 judgment that paved the way for Hagia Sophia's usage as a museum, a decree on the 10th of July 2020 to legally classify the Hagia Sophia as a mosque was issued.
Even if you have just one day to spend in Istanbul, by visiting the Hagia Sophia site you can also visit other important attractions like Sultan Ahmet Mosque, Basilica Cistern, Mosaics Museum, Topkapı Palace Museum, Turkish and Islamic Arts Museum, Grand Bazaar, and so on.
The Hagia Sophia Mosque is open to all tourists, Muslims and non-Muslims alike. However, there are certain rules to follow. For instance, before going inside the Hagia Sophia Mosque, visitors should remove their shoes. You are also expected to avoid visiting the Hagia Sophia Mosque during prayer times, specifically on Fridays at noon. Moreover, when visiting the Hagia Sophia Mosque, women are expected to cover their heads as it is a religious and sacred place for Muslims. Headscarves are available for free at the Hagia Sophia Mosque’s entrance. You are allowed to take photos inside the Hagia Sophia Mosque, however, you should not photograph anyone who is praying. During your visit, you are expected to remain silent and avoid disturbing anyone who is praying. The Hagia Sophia Mosque is free to see, however, you could donate to the community if you would like.
The Hagia Sophia Mosque is one of the most visited and loved attractions of Istanbul and Turkey. It contains countless stories, from the Byzantine era to the Ottoman period, that await you to discover. If you are visiting Istanbul even for one day, you must see the Hagia Sophia Mosque. If you have limited time and do not know how to plan your visit wisely, you could book one of the guided Hagia Sophia Mosque tours and avoid wasting time! Hagia Sophia is very popular among Turkish people and tourists, so finding time to visit the mosque is very difficult. By booking guided Hagia Sophia Mosque tours, you will not have to wait in line or spend a lot of time visiting just one place!
Hagia Sophia Mosque, whose structure dates back over 1400 years, is the pinnacle of the Byzantine era. If you want to visit this landmark in Istanbul, you might consider booking guided Hagia Sophia Mosque tours. Another option you might consider is the Istanbul Tourist Pass. With the Istanbul tourist pass, your trip will be all covered, and you will not need to worry about your needs and the places you want to see separately. Istanbul Tourist Pass will allow you to visit more than 75 attractions in Istanbul without waiting in long lines. All you will have to do is enjoy your vacation and discover the beauties of Istanbul as independently as you wish
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