Hagia Sophia, Istanbul

About Hagia Sophia, Istanbul

Hagia Sophia, meaning Holy Wisdom, was built by Emperor Justinian in only five years and crowned by a dome that seemed to float on light. For nearly a thousand years it was the cathedral of Constantinople and the seat of the Eastern Orthodox patriarch. After the Ottoman conquest in 1453 it became a mosque, gaining minarets, a mihrab and great calligraphic roundels. Its design influenced both Byzantine churches and later Ottoman imperial mosques.

In 1934 the Turkish Republic turned the building into a museum, and in 2020 it was reconverted to a mosque, a decision that drew both support and criticism. Byzantine mosaics of Christ, Mary and emperors survive and remain visible, though some are covered by curtains during prayers. Foreign visitors now enter by a dedicated route to the upper galleries with a paid ticket, while worshippers use the ground floor. Prayer times affect access.

What to see

• The vast central dome
• Deesis mosaic in the upper gallery
• Ottoman calligraphic roundels
• Imperial Gate and narthex mosaics
• Marble door and Omphalion floor

Visiting Hagia Sophia, Istanbul: practical guide

Best time

April to May and September to October

Hours

Visitor route open daily outside prayer times

Entry

Fee for foreign visitors on the gallery route; free for worship

Dress code

Women cover hair, shoulders and legs; men wear long trousers

Nearest airport

Istanbul Airport (IST), 45 km

Tips from experienced pilgrims

• Buy tickets in advance online to skip the longest lines
• Avoid Friday midday when visitor access is limited
• Combine with the Basilica Cistern and Topkapi Palace

Festivals and special days

• Ramadan prayers
• Laylat al-Qadr

Etiquette for visitors

Guidance drawn from Islam tradition. Always follow signs and local custodians.

• Dress modestly, covering arms and legs; women usually cover their hair in mosques.
• Remove shoes before entering the prayer hall.
• Avoid visiting during prayer times unless invited, and never walk in front of someone praying.
• Be discreet about eating, drinking and smoking in public during Ramadan days.
• Use your right hand for eating and giving or receiving items.
• Some mosques and the holy cities of Mecca and Medina are closed to non-Muslims.

Location map

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Frequently asked questions