Hagia Sophia: The One Time Mosque Turned Tourist Trap

Hagia Sophia, which in Greek means “holy wisdom,” is a former basilica, then mosque, and now a popular tourist attraction that sits at the heart of Istanbul. This architectural marvel has been around since 537 AD, and has undergone several transformations.

The structure was first built as a basilica by the Byzantine Emperor Justinian I. Its dome, which sits atop massive columns and buttresses, was the largest in the world at the time. Later on, when the Ottoman Empire took over in the 15th century, Hagia Sophia became a prominent mosque, with minarets added to its exterior.

But, in a twist of fate in the 20th century, the mosque was converted into a museum in the 1930s. After being a religious institution for centuries, Hagia Sophia now welcomes visitors from all over the globe as a tourist attraction.

The beauty and grandeur of Hagia Sophia is undeniable, but it’s not just the architecture that’s impressive. The history of this building is what makes it truly fascinating, with numerous ups and downs that show the resilience of the structure and the people who’ve cared for it.

One of the most significant moments in the history of Hagia Sophia was when it was plundered and vandalized during the Fourth Crusade in 1204. Imagine an angry mob raiding one of the most beautiful buildings of its time with swords and torches – not a pretty sight! But, of course, the building stood the test of time and was restored after the Crusaders were kicked out of Constantinople.

Another memorable moment was when Sultan Mehmed II conquered Constantinople and turned Hagia Sophia into a mosque, with some of the Christian mosaics concealed or removed. The beautiful gold mosaics of Christ and Byzantine emperors and empresses that once covered Hagia Sophia’s walls and ceilings were covered with plaster out of respect for Islam. But as they say, “when one door closes, another opens”. Today, those same mosaics are visible once again after restoration work in the 20th century.

Today, Hagia Sophia is a tourist magnet, with millions of visitors flocking to Istanbul to see its beauty and learn about its history. The structure is so iconic that it has become an emblem of the city itself, and once you visit it, you’ll surely understand why. From the stunning domes to the intricate mosaics, Hagia Sophia is an awe-inspiring landmark that promises to make your trip to Istanbul all the more memorable.

So, pay a visit to Hagia Sophia – the religio-historical building that once screamed for worship, but now beckons tourists from all corners of the world. Who knows, you might even convert to the religion of architecture after witnessing its magnificence!