(Ayasofya)

Hagia Sophia

The Hagia Sophia, originally built as a cathedral in 537 AD, stands as a monumental symbol of Byzantine architecture. Located in the Sultanahmet district, it served as an Eastern Orthodox cathedral, then a mosque, and now a museum. Its massive dome, intricate mosaics, and stunning calligraphy reflect its rich religious and architectural history, making it one of Istanbul’s most iconic landmarks.