Lots of people, go early in the morning to avoid big cues (though they move fast to admit). Plan as a first thing to do , a lot of interesting stuff and takes a while.
Did you know that in 1453 Sultan Mehmed II of Ottoman Turks conquered Constantinople and ordered Hagia Sophia basilica to be changed into the Ayasofya Mosque?
Muslim world meets Christianity and the world doesn't end. Turkey should lead the way in blending culture and religion and it starts here at Hagia Sofia.
Hagia Sophia is in the first place of top places of worship in the Istanbul list and it is the most important monuments in the history of world architecture. Read more
Although the enormity of Ayasofya is overwhelming, make sure you don't miss all the small things... Like the tiles in almost hidden corner niches and the viking's graffiti on the second floor.
Do not fail to go to the second floor by way of the side passage inside and to the edge of the building. Views are spectacular and provide good photo ops.
The place where Islam and Christianity embrace, with no boundaries. Beautiful exquisite architecture both interior and exterior. Couldn't get enough of filming and photographing 360s.
One of the most awesome places I’ve ever been to. A marvelous example of early Byzantinearchitecture. Awesome mosaics inside. Be ready to spend several hours inside.
To truly understand the history of this building and it's significant role in Christianity and Islam, it is wise visit when the crowds are gone, to research and/or attend with a professional guide. Read more
Haghia Sophia is considered one of the finest architectural works in the world. Although it was occasionally damaged and repaired, its essence remains untouched especially since 1453.
This place is under renovate when I came here..but you still can enjoy the building and the park that surrounding this place..it's still beautiful even from the outside!
The No1 sight in Istanbul and the only one which is maintained. Pretty sad. With official guides you skip the long queue (100tr). Audio guides for 20tr but just download info on your phone.
Beautiful architecture and brilliantly designed interior domes with mosaic. Though waa disappointed that I couldn't take proper photos due to the renovation in progress
I like it but they want to change it. Unfortunately places like that should stay as they were build because they are historical and nobody can change the importance and the history... Shame
Architecture is amazing, a true miracle...the art inside is being restored but im not so sure that either the icons and the frescos nor the grace can be restored!
Magnificent Greek church which is being destroyed by Turkish from the past until nowadays! Even the Unesco could not prevent the Turkish anger about Ayia Sofia!
Beautiful Greek Orthodoxchurch!Many 'tourguides' approaching people outside it. Do your reaearch first. Their help is not actually needed for anything!
be sure to go when the renovation is completed! if it wasnt one of the "must see" places id say to pass, not nearly as pretty or ornate as the "blue mosque"
40 TL entrance. Prepare to look up a lot because of its tall, intricate ceilings. Some parts were under repair in June but this is a necessity to preserve the historic value of the site. Tip: go up.
Put the camera away for a minute, take a moment to take in the splendor of this space. This building aesthetically depicts and epitomizes human progress and innovation, enjoy it.
Purchase Museum Pass Istanbul, on sale at many of the city's hotels. The card allows you to save time and money by offering admission to six must-see museums without having to queue up.
Like Hagia Sophia, Chora is a must-see spot, built as a church and then turned into a mosque. For more information about Chora, you can have a glance at its offical application. http://bit.ly/P3nsXi
(Ayasofya Müzesi) Open: daily from 09.00 – 17.00 Closed: Monday, and until 13.00 on the first day of religious holidays, Impressive History!! Dont miss the Wish Thumb wall Whole ( people are queing )
Shame! You made a holy place, designed and named as a Christian church. A Mosque. No respect to Christian art. Change the name too then!!! Turkey👎🏻 back to medieval ages