Hagia Sophia Tickets, Tours & Visitor Information
The Hagia Sophia, also officially known as the Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque or Ayasofya in Turkish, is one of the most important and visited landmarks in Istanbul and across all of Turkey. For centuries, it has stood at the heart of the city’s history, admired for its monumental scale, architectural brilliance, and deep spiritual significance. Originally constructed in the 6th century as a Christian cathedral under the Byzantine Emperor Justinian I, it was later transformed into a mosque during the Ottoman period, reflecting the city’s layered past. Today, Hagia Sophia functions as an active mosque while welcoming visitors from around the world. Inside, Byzantine and Islamic elements come together in a remarkable harmony, from soaring domes and luminous mosaics to elegant calligraphy and towering minarets. Millions of visitors enter Hagia Sophia each year to experience its atmosphere and understand its cultural importance. Planning ahead by reserving tickets or tours in advance is recommended to ensure a smooth and meaningful visit to this iconic monument.