Hagia Sophia: A Visitor's Guide to Istanbul's Greatest Monument

For almost 1,000 years, Hagia Sophia was the largest cathedral in the world. Built by Emperor Justinian in AD 537, it became a mosque after the Ottoman conquest in 1453, a museum in 1934 and a mosque again in 2020. Its vast floating dome, glittering mosaics and layers of history make it the one building in Istanbul you must not miss.

How visits work today

Hagia Sophia is an active mosque. Visitors who are not coming to pray enter through a separate entrance, pay an entrance fee and follow a route through the upper galleries, where the finest mosaics are. Access can be paused during prayer times, and the busiest periods bring long queues – arrive early.

What to see

1. The great dome

Rising more than 55 metres above the floor and ringed by 40 windows, the dome seems to float on a circle of light. It inspired mosque builders for centuries.

2. The Deësis mosaic

In the south gallery, this 13th-century mosaic of Christ with the Virgin Mary and John the Baptist is one of the masterpieces of Byzantine art.

3. The imperial mosaics

Gold mosaics in the galleries show emperors and empresses – including Constantine IX and Empress Zoe – presenting gifts to Christ.

4. The Islamic calligraphy

Eight huge roundels bearing the names of God, the Prophet Muhammad and the first caliphs hang high in the nave – among the largest pieces of calligraphy in the Islamic world.

5. The Weeping Column

According to legend, putting your thumb into the hole in this bronze-clad column and turning your hand in a full circle will make a wish come true.

Practical tips

• Dress code: cover shoulders and knees; women should cover their hair. Scarves are usually available at the entrance.
• Shoes: you may be asked to remove them in parts of the building.
• Timing: go first thing in the morning, and avoid Friday midday prayers.
• Combine it: the Blue Mosque, the Basilica Cistern and Topkapı Palace are all within a few minutes' walk.

Plan the rest of your stay with our Istanbul travel guide.