Hagia Sophia

Hagia Sophia

Hagia Sophia the Church of Divine Wisdom, a fifteen hundred years old splendid monument, is a must see in Istanbul, built to be the world’s largest place of worship by Emperor Justinian in 532 AD. First a Greek Orthodox Patriarchal Basilica, later an imperial mosque and now a museum. The lofty interior, stunning surviving mosaics and the massive dome, which seems to float unsupported and gives the church its amazing sense of space. An unforgettable experience awaiting you.

• 

• 

• 

! Open every day and free to all visitors and can be visited except for the five prayer times.

! Hagia Sophia ticket price was around 100 Turkish Lira when it was a museum. Since it was converted into a mosque in July 2020, there is no entrance fee. However, tourists cannot visit it inside during the five prayer times. Prayer times are pegged to sunrise and sunset and therefore change throughout the year. Check current prayer times and avoid visiting 45 minutes before and 30 minutes after each prayer. Best time to visit is before noon prayer.

! When visiting Hagia Sophia: Modest, conservative clothing which exposes a minimum of flesh is good. No shorts or sleeveless shirts on either men or women. Women cover over head with scarf or shawl.

! Handheld cameras of all types are allowed in the Hagia Sophia. No tripods.