Hagia Sophia Church and Hagia Sophia Museum Tickets

If you are planning a visit to Istanbul, Turkey, then Hagia Sophia should definitely be on your list of places to see. This historic landmark has been standing for over 1,500 years and has been a church, a mosque, and now a museum. In this article, we will explore the history of Hagia Sophia, the difference between the church and museum, and how to buy tickets for your visit.

1. Introduction

Hagia Sophia, also known as the Ayasofya, is one of the most famous landmarks in Istanbul, Turkey. It was first built as a church in the 6th century by the Byzantine Emperor Justinian I and has since been a mosque and a museum. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site and attracts millions of visitors every year.

2. History of Hagia Sophia

Hagia Sophia was built in 537 AD as a church under the Byzantine Emperor Justinian I. It was the largest cathedral in the world for almost a thousand years until the Seville Cathedral was built in Spain. It remained a church for almost 900 years until it was converted into a mosque in 1453 after the Ottoman Turks conquered Constantinople.

3. Conversion to a Mosque

After the Ottoman Turks conquered Constantinople, Hagia Sophia was converted into a mosque. The Ottomans added minarets and other Islamic features to the building. It remained a mosque for almost 500 years until it was closed down in 1931 by the new Turkish government.

4. Conversion to a Museum

In 1935, Hagia Sophia was converted into a museum by the Turkish government. The Islamic features were not removed but were covered up so that the original Christian features could be seen. In 2020, it was converted back into a mosque.

5. Architecture of Hagia Sophia

Hagia Sophia is famous for its massive dome which is 55.6 meters high and has a diameter of 31.8 meters. It is supported by four piers and has two half-domes on the east and west sides. The dome is surrounded by windows that let in light and give the impression that the dome is floating.

6. Inside Hagia Sophia Church

The interior of Hagia Sophia Church is decorated with mosaics and frescoes that date back to the Byzantine era. These include depictions of Jesus, Mary, and various saints. The marble floors and columns are also original.

7. Inside Hagia Sophia Museum

The interior of Hagia Sophia Museum is similar to the church but with Islamic features such as calligraphy and Islamic geometric patterns. The mihrab, which indicates the direction of Mecca, is also present. Visitors can also see the sultan’s lodge and the imperial gate.

8. How to Buy Tickets

Tickets for Hagia Sophia can be purchased online or at the ticket office. Online tickets can be purchased from the official website or from third-party websites. It is recommended to purchase tickets in advance to avoid long queues.

9. Ticket Prices

The ticket prices for Hagia Sophia depend on whether you are a Turkish citizen Foreign visitors to Hagia Sophia will need to pay an entrance fee, while Turkish citizens and residents can enter for free. The entrance fee for foreign visitors is 100 Turkish lira (approximately 13 USD) for adults and 50 Turkish lira (approximately 6.50 USD) for students.

10. Guided Tours

Guided tours are available for those who want a more in-depth understanding of the history and architecture of Hagia Sophia. These tours can be booked online or at the ticket office. Audio guides are also available in several languages for those who prefer to explore the museum on their own.

11. Best Time to Visit

Hagia Sophia is open every day except for Mondays. The best time to visit is early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid the crowds. Summer months (June-August) tend to be the busiest times of the year, while winter months (December-February) are less crowded.

12. Dress Code

Visitors to Hagia Sophia are required to dress modestly. This means no shorts, sleeveless tops, or revealing clothing. Scarves and shawls are available at the entrance for those who need to cover their heads.

13. Getting to Hagia Sophia

Hagia Sophia is located in the historic Sultanahmet neighborhood of Istanbul, which is easily accessible by public transport. The closest tram stop is Sultanahmet, which is a short walk away from the museum.

14. Nearby Attractions

There are several other attractions in the Sultanahmet neighborhood that are worth visiting, including the Blue Mosque, the Topkapi Palace, and the Basilica Cistern.

15. Conclusion

Hagia Sophia is a must-visit landmark in Istanbul, Turkey. With its rich history, stunning architecture, and beautiful artwork, it is a true marvel of human creativity and engineering. If you are planning a visit, be sure to buy your tickets in advance and dress modestly to show respect for the cultural and religious significance of this landmark.