Hagia Sophia Museum

Hagia Sophia is one of Istanbul's most popular place, is one of Turkey's most visited places too. The Hagia Sophia Museum is the largest Byzantine church in Istanbul. Hagia Sophia was the church until the conquest of Istanbul. After the conquest of 1453, he converted to the mosque. It was later turned into a museum by Atatürk's order in 1934.

What Means Hagia Sofia?
The word "Sofia" comes from the word "Sophos" in ancient Greek meaning "wisdom". Hence the name "Hagia Sofia" means "Divine Wisdom" and is considered one of God's three qualities in the Orthodox sect.

Hagia Sophia was built by the Byzantine Emperor 1st Justinian in the old city center on the historical peninsula of Istanbul between 532 - 537 AD.

Hagia Sophia Visiting Hours
Box office closing hours vary.
The box office is closed at 18:00 in the summer season and at 16:00 in the winter season.
The first day of Ramadan is closed for half a day.

Entrance Fee: 40 TL (It's the price in 2017. It may have changed)

How to Go to Hagia Sophia?
By Bus: First come to Eminönü. You can get on the tram to Hagia Sophia.
By Ship: Reach to tram with Kadıköy-Eminönü / Üsküdar-Eminönü ferries.
By Tramway: Use the Bağcılar-Kabataş line. Get off from tramway the Gülhane or Sultanahmet stop.
Parking Fee: Unfortunately, there is no parking at the Hagia Sophia Museum.

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