10 Things to Do in Hagia Sophia (Ayasofya) Istanbul, Turkey
Hagia Sophia, or Ayasofya in Turkish, is one of the most iconic sights of Istanbul. It is a magnificent building that has been a symbol of the city for centuries, and it is a must-visit destination for any traveler. Hagia Sophia was built in 537 AD by the Byzantine Emperor Justinian I, and it served as the seat of the Eastern Orthodox Church for over 1000 years. It was then converted into a mosque by the Ottoman Empire in 1453, and it has been a museum since 1935. Here are 10 amazing things to do in Hagia Sophia.
1. Admire the Exterior
The exterior of Hagia Sophia is just as impressive as the interior. It is an impressive building with its marble columns, domed roofs, and intricate mosaics. The building is surrounded by four minarets, which were added to the building by the Ottomans. You can take in the beauty of the building from the outside, and it is a great place to take photos.
2. Explore the Interior
Once you enter the building, you will be amazed by the grandeur of its interior. The building is filled with beautiful mosaics, frescoes, and marble columns. You can also admire the intricate decorations on the walls and ceilings.
3. Take in the Views
Hagia Sophia is located in the Sultanahmet district of Istanbul, and it offers breathtaking views of the city. You can climb up to the upper galleries to get a better view of the city.
4. Visit the Treasury
The Treasury of Hagia Sophia is located in the lower galleries of the building. It houses a collection of religious artifacts and objects that were donated by various donors over the centuries.
5. Climb the Minarets
The minarets of Hagia Sophia are open to the public, and you can climb up to the top for a stunning view of the city. You can also get a close-up view of the intricate decorations on the minarets.
6. Attend a Concert
Hagia Sophia is the site of many concerts and performances throughout the year. You can attend a concert and experience the beauty of the building while listening to some amazing music.
7. Join a Guided Tour
Hagia Sophia offers guided tours in several languages, and they are a great way to learn more about the history of the building. The tour guides are very knowledgeable and can answer any questions you may have.
8. Shop at the Souvenir Shop
The souvenir shop at Hagia Sophia is a great place to buy some souvenirs and gifts for your friends and family. You can find a wide variety of items, from books to postcards to jewelry.
9. Visit the Library
The library at Hagia Sophia is one of the oldest libraries in the world. It houses a large collection of books and manuscripts, and it is a great place to learn more about the history of the building.
10. Have a Meal at the Cafe
The cafe at Hagia Sophia is a great place to take a break and have a meal. The cafe serves traditional Turkish dishes, and you can enjoy the views of the city while you eat.
Hagia Sophia is one of the most iconic sights of Istanbul, and it is a must-visit destination for any traveler. Whether you want to admire the exterior, explore the interior, or take in the views, there is something for everyone at Hagia Sophia. So don't miss out on these 10 amazing things to do in Hagia Sophia.