The Hagia Sophia (Istanbul)

The Hagia Sophia bears testament to Turkey’s tumultuous history, functioning as the Byzantine Cathedral of old Constantinople, then an Ottoman mosque and now one of Istanbul’s most impressive museums. Dating right back to the 6th century AD, it is steeped in history and one of the greatest examples of Byzantine architecture still standing today. The Hagia Sophia has an altogether unique appearance. It is a huge domed basilica surrounded by four soaring Islamic minarets. The interior is no less impressive. On short breaks to Istanbul, you can see 30 million tiny gold mosaic tiles which fill the interior and underside of the dome and visitors should definitely climb up to the mezzanine level for a better view of some of its most majestic mosaic frescoes.

 

At the base of the dome there are numerous small windows from where bright sunlight floods in accentuating the white marble floors, the many imperial mosaic portraits on the walls and several statues. Whichever way you turn, medieval Christian mosaics will compete for your undivided attention with huge friezes containing elegant Islamic calligraphy. On weekend breaks in Istanbul, you will see numerous monuments, tombs and statues of past emperors and religious leaders dotted throughout the Hagia Sophia which seems to sparkle in the bright sunlight.

 

The Hagia Sophia was transformed into a museum in 1934, however most of its art treasures remain in their original places and it still feels more like a functioning religious building. Visit the beautifully tiled Library where ancient manuscripts, books and hanging artwork is displayed or take a tour of the exterior grounds and gardens where you will see the foundations and remnants of the original Christian church which dates back to the 4th century AD. There is some fabulous mosaic artwork that is so easy to miss among all the riches on show, and while on cheap city breaks in Istanbul, you should make the most of an entertaining guided tour.