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When I visited Turkey, I had it in mind that even if we didn’t have the chance to see any other historic landmark, we couldn’t miss out on Hagia Sophia. Located in the heart of Istanbul, this landmark is a testament to the country’s rich history, and as a history enthusiast, it was always on my itinerary.
If you have always heard about this incredible mosque, it is time that you go through a comprehensive Hagia Sophia travel guide to make the most of your trip to this iconic historic landmark.
First built in 537 CE by the Byzantine Emperor Justinian I, this glorious landmark has always been a significant one in the country. Turkey has been a popular destination among UK tourists and people from around the world. It had always been on my bucket list, and when I finally got the chance to visit, I was blown away by the exceptional offerings of this beautiful country.
Whoever visits Istanbul is sure to visit Hagia Sophia. If you also want to learn beyond the places to visit in Turkey and the restaurants that serve delicious food, Hagia Sophia is the perfect place to have a glimpse of the region’s incredible history. We are here with a comprehensive guide to make your holiday planning easier.
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Why Is Hagia Sophia Worth Visiting?
Hagia Sophia is not just a historic monument in Istanbul; it is a journey through time. There is no better place to get an insight into the rich historical past of the country than Hagia Sophia. No history buff will want to miss out on the chance to visit a monument that stands tall in all its glory for 1500 years.
When the landmark was built in 537 CE, it was constructed as a cathedral representing the glory of the Byzantine Empire. It stood tall as a cathedral for a millennium, but in 1453, the Ottoman Empire turned it into a mosque.
In 1935, the mosque was converted into a museum to display the rich history of Turkey, particularly that of the Ottoman Empire. However, it was converted back into a mosque in 2020, which receives millions of tourists every year, and thousands pray their daily prayers here. Although it is a mosque, it holds spiritual significance, and its rich history makes it even more captivating.
It wouldn’t be wrong to say that Hagia Sophia is an architectural marvel. One of the most fascinating aspects of this landmark is its exceptional blend of Christian and Islamic influences, which is evident in its structure and design.
Get ready to be stunned by the vast dome, dazzling mosaics, Islamic calligraphy, and richly veined marbles that are a sight to behold. From its rich history to its stunning architecture, every detail makes this iconic landmark a must-visit during your time in Istanbul.
Things To Know Before You Visit Hagia Sophia
We hope you will be convinced to visit this glorious landmark soon during your trip to Istanbul. Therefore, let’s take the next step. Let’s learn about all the things that you must know as you plan your trip to Hagia Sophia.
The Best Time to Visit Hagia Sophia
This might be the first question that comes to your mind once you decide to visit Hagia Sophia. As it is one of the most popular landmarks in the region, you can expect high tourist crowds at the mosque all year round.
And as it is an indoor attraction for the most part, the weather usually doesn’t affect your plans as much. So, you just have to choose the best part of the day to visit the mosque once you are in Istanbul. It is recommended that you visit the mosque early in the morning to enjoy a quiet time here.
You can see it between 9:00 and 9:30 am, as this is the time when most guided tours haven’t started yet, giving you time to explore the mosque before the crowds of tourists arrive. Also, if you are a non-Muslim, you must not visit the mosque on Friday as it is closed for tourists. Only the mandatory Friday prayer is held on this day.
Opening Hours of Hagia Sophia
Hagia Sophia
Although the mosque is open 24 hours a day for worshippers, it has a fixed daily schedule for tourists. The mosque opens for tourists at 9:00 AM, and the last visitor is admitted at approximately 7:30 PM, before it closes to tourists at 8:30 PM. As mentioned earlier, the mosque closes for tourists on Friday at midday and reopens at 2:00 PM, but it is usually crowded with worshippers.
Also, keep in mind that the opening hours of Hagia Sophia are the prayer times. Muslims pray in congregation five times a day, and as this is a functioning mosque, worshippers gather in the mosque for each prayer. The prayer time fluctuates according to the sunset and sunrise times.
Therefore, ensure you check the prayer timings before planning to visit the mosque on the day you intend to do so. To visit the Hagia Sophia History and Experience Museum, you can do so any day between 9:00 AM and 7:00 PM.
Commuting to Hagia Sophia
Another important thing that the mosque visitors might want to know is the commute to the landmark. For anyone who wants to use public transportation, catching a bus or tram to Sultanahmet Square might be the best option. A seven-minute walk from this square, and you will arrive at the beautiful mosque.
The second commute option to the mosque is a taxi, which might not be as cost-effective as public transport. If you plan to bring your car, please note that the mosque doesn’t have a designated parking area. You will need to park at one of the nearby private parking areas.
Booking Tickets and the Tour Guide
Booking your tickets and the tour guide, and whether it is worth it, is another question that might come to your mind. And we have the answer for it. Booking the tickets early surely saves you a lot of time and inconvenience. Wouldn’t you want to skip waiting in long queues at the mosque? You know how to do it. Just book your tickets online and skip all the lines.
If you want to learn the history of this glorious landmark in detail, consider booking a tour guide. A knowledgeable guide can take you through the evolution of this spectacular landmark and the historic events that have been associated with it. You will learn everything about this mosque, from its use in various societal and cultural events to the politics surrounding it.
Also, the intricate details of the mosque’s structure can only be best explained by a guide. So, if you want to feed your curiosity with some exciting facts about Hagia Sophia, make sure to book a private tour guide before you visit the mosque.
New Rules for Visiting Hagia Sophia
Theotokos (Virgin Mother and Child) on mosaic in Hagia Sophia, Istanbul, Turkey.
As we have already discussed, the mosque’s reopening as a functioning place of worship in 2020 came with specific rules. Every visitor is expected to observe modesty while visiting this mosque.
Women must also cover their hair with a headscarf that you can buy or rent near the mosque’s entrance. Both men and women must also cover their shoulders and knees adequately.
Therefore, as you add Hagia Sophia to your itinerary, also prepare a modest outfit to wear at this mosque. Keep in mind that you are visiting a religiously sensitive attraction, and it is not just a tourist site but also a place of worship. Respecting its sanctity will show your responsibility and respect for the country and its people.
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Highlights Of Hagia Sophia That You Must Not Miss
The magnificent Hagia Sophia leaves everyone in awe. You will be stunned by the glorious structure and details that have not worn out even after centuries. If you want to make sure that you don’t miss out on any Hagia Sophia highlights, we have come up with the perfect list for you.
Marvel at the Beautiful Dome
The stunning dome of the park can alone attract and impress millions of tourists. This mosque is one of the few Byzantine architectural marvels in the country, and Hagia Sophia’s dome is enough to stand as a testament to the Byzantine era. You might not have seen similar engineering and light effects as those found in the beautiful dome of Hagia Sophia. To experience it all, stand at the central nave and look up for the most mesmerising sight.
Look at Byzantine Mosaics Closely
The intricate details of the Byzantine mosaics at Hagia Sophia are out of this world. To get a look at some of the most beautiful mosaics in the mosque, head over to the upper gallery. The Deësis mosaic, the Virgin and Child, and imperial portraits will leave you in awe of the creative beauty and detail-oriented artwork of the Byzantine era.
See the Imperial Gate and the Coronation Spot
How can you miss out on the spot where many of the Byzantine coronation rituals took place while you are at this iconic Byzantine landmark? Head over to the Imperial Gate and the Coronation Spot for a historic retreat. If you are with a tour guide, you might learn about some exciting historical facts about this spot.
Witness the Mihrab and Minbar
When the Ottoman Empire ruled, it turned the cathedral into a mosque, introducing a stunning Mihrab and Minbar. This made the Qibla and the sermon platform for the mosque. It is a true reflection of the Islamic architecture and history. You will feel a certain spirituality here that is truly unmatched.
Notice the Marble, Columns, and the Recycled Spolia
All these elements are hard to miss when you are at Hagia Sophia. The different marbles and columns at this mosque have reused materials from ancient buildings across the empire. Each one of these elements is incredible and fascinating. Any architecture and art enthusiast would not want to miss the chance to take a closer look at all these recycled spolia.
See the Weeping Column (Column of St. Gregory)
This is a marble pillar in Hagia Sophia that is associated with St. Gregory. Legends also link it to the Virgin Mary. It has moisture on its surface, appearing as tears. Additionally, tourists enjoy the “hole” tradition here, which involves inserting a finger into the hole and rotating it. It is believed that if your finger comes out wet, your wish is granted or you are protected from illness.
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Safety and Practical Tips From Personal Experience
Having visited Hagia Sophia, I don’t want you to make the same mistakes that I made. Here are some safety and practical tips to ensure a smoother, more memorable experience at Hagia Sophia.
- You must have a scarf with you if you don’t want to borrow one.
- Comfortable shoes are a must as the mosque has stone floors.
- The landmark is exposed to extensive heat during the summer season. Therefore, please ensure you come prepared. Carry your water bottles, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat. Trust me, you don’t want to make the same mistake as I did of underestimating the summer sun in Istanbul.
- Sultanahmet is a bustling place. It is often flooded with tourists and locals. Therefore, ensure that you keep your valuables safe. Such extensive crowds are usually filled with pickpockets and thieves, so be cautious.
- When I visited the mosque, some restoration work was underway, and certain parts of the mosque were inaccessible. If you are staying for specific parts, look for restoration updates beforehand so you don’t have a disappointing visit to the glorious mosque.
- Take a private tour guide with you. I took one with me, and it was surely a game-changing experience. It taught me a great deal about the incredible history of this mosque and its intricate details, which elevated the entire experience.
Summing Up
Hagia Sophia and its incredible history go back centuries. It is enough to tell us about the historic influences at this mosque that this functioning mosque was once a cathedral and even a museum. This tells us that the Turkish hold this beautiful landmark dearly in their hearts and want it to be the centre of attention of the historic centre of Istanbul.
If you have decided to visit the mosque soon, we are here to help you plan the most unforgettable trip. Contact Travel backpack now and share your experience with us. Let us be your guide to Hagia Sophia and help you have the most memorable experience at the mosque.