On our recent trip to Istanbul, my wife and I had the opportunity to visit one of the city’s most iconic landmarks: Hagia Sophia. This historic architectural marvel stands as a testament to Istanbul’s rich cultural and religious history, captivating visitors with its grandeur and intricate beauty. Our trip started with a visit to the Hippodrome, followed by the Blue Mosque. From the Blue Mosque, we walked about five minutes down the scenic promenade to the plaza adjacent to the Hagia Sophia.
Luckily, there were restrooms located near the plaza, allowing us to take a quick restroom stop before joining a very long queue to enter the Hagia Sophia. The line stretched from the entrance, which was to our left as we approached, all the way around the plaza to our right. After a quick freshen up, we joined the queue. The wait, including a cursory security check, was less than an hour. It was worth the wait.
A Brief History of Hagia Sophia
Hagia Sophia, originally built as a cathedral by the Byzantine Emperor Justinian I in 537 AD, has undergone several transformations over the centuries. Following the Ottoman conquest in 1453, Sultan Mehmed II converted it into a mosque. In 1935, it was secularized and opened as a museum by the Republic of Turkey. Most recently, in 2020, it was reconverted into a mosque. Despite these changes, Hagia Sophia remains a symbol of the diverse cultural and religious heritage of Istanbul.
I had mixed feeling about this, as the recent conversion to a mosque meant that they covered up much of the Christian iconography within the structure. With that in mind, I was relieved that some of the art outside the actual sanctuary was still intact. I was also relieved that they did not destroy the art inside the sanctuary, opting to cover it up instead.
First Impressions and Entrance
After clearing security, we stopped outside the building to observe some of the remnants from the church that previously occupied the site, the second of three. The first was built between 337 and 361 by Eudoxius of Antioch, making it among the old and grandest churches in Christian history.
Hagia Sophia Interior: A Blend of Art and Architecture
Shoes may be worn into the outer hallway, just inside the main entrance. Christian art still adorns the arch of the entrance. The hallway serves as an area to remove and store shoes prior to entering the carpeted sanctuary.
Stepping inside, we were immediately awestruck by the vast, open space and the towering dome that seemed to float above us. The interior of Hagia Sophia is a masterpiece of Byzantine architecture, with a harmonious blend of Christian iconography and Islamic calligraphy. The original Christian mosaics, depicting Christ, the Virgin Mary, and various saints, coexist with large medallions inscribed with the names of Allah and the Prophet Muhammad. The Christian art is obscured by large drapes, and angels at the four corners of the sanctuary have been altered a bit, but otherwise, they are still visible to visitors.
One of the most impressive features is the central dome, which rises nearly 180 feet above the floor. The dome is adorned with golden mosaics that catch the light streaming in through the windows, creating a celestial glow that adds to the mystical ambiance of the space. The massive marble pillars and intricately designed arches further enhance the architectural splendor of Hagia Sophia.
A Place of Worship and Reflection
Despite its transformation into a mosque, Hagia Sophia remains open to visitors of all faiths and backgrounds. The serene atmosphere and the sheer magnificence of the architecture make it a place of contemplation and reflection. We were fortunate to visit during a quiet time, allowing us to fully appreciate the spiritual and historical significance of this iconic structure.
Practical Information for Visitors
Hagia Sophia is open to visitors daily, with specific hours designated for prayer. Hours of operation begin at 9am and run until 7:30 pm, with the exception of periods set aside for prayer. Modest dress is required, and women are asked to cover their heads. Admission is free, but donations are appreciated to help with the preservation of this historic site.
Conclusion
Our visit to Hagia Sophia was a highlight of our trip to Istanbul. The architectural beauty, historical significance, and spiritual ambiance of this magnificent structure left a lasting impression on us. Whether you are a history enthusiast, an architecture lover, or simply a curious traveler, Hagia Sophia is a must-visit destination that will leave you in awe of its timeless splendor.
