Ah, the Hagia Sophia grand mosque of Istanbul – Turkey. The former great church, Ottoman Mosque, official museum and now mosque again has saintly ambiences combined with Islamic and Byzantine architecture. Sitting in Istanbul’s old city part known as Sultanahmet, Hagia Sophia joins nearby significant historical buildings belonging to Turkey’s UNESCO World Heritage list. The large building portrays the history of 3 cities; Istanbul, Constantinople, and Byzantium. I cannot criticise Hagia Sophia in any manner, and long queues to get in, do not deter me from singing its praises. How can this man-made construction displaying Islamic and Byzantine architecture evoke so much respect?
About the Hagia Sophia Mosque of Istanbul
The Holy Wisdom Christian Church and Emperor Justinian
The ancient Hagia Sophia we see today in Istanbul is not the original Christian cathedral dating from the Byzantine period. Roman Emperor Constantine, the Great of the Byzantine Empire, built the first Hagia Sophia in 360 AD. Unfortunately, a fire in 404AD destroyed the roof and then another fire; ten years later destroyed the rest. The first Hagia Sophia holy wisdom church was damaged, so Roman Emperor Justinian completely rebuilt the second hagia Sophia church. Ten thousand workers completed the Byzantine period project in just five years, with primitive tools compared to today’s construction machinery.
In addition, they did not use any scaffolding either. Roman Emperor Justinian was clever, though. He separated workers into two groups and promised bonuses for those who quickly completed their work the holy wisdom church quickly. Bad luck would knock the great church once again, though. One hundred and seventeen years later, the second Hagia Sophia was destroyed in Istanbul’s Nika revolts. After being rebuilt, the great church displaying impeccable Byzantine architecture suffered minor damage over hundreds of years but was still standing.
The Hagia Sophia, the Ottoman Conquest and Rule
During the Fall of Constantinople and the Byzantine Empire in 1453, Sultan Mehmet, the Conqueror, also known as Fatih Sultan Mehmed, covered the Christian mosaics and converted Hagia Sophia into the first imperial mosque. However, when Sultan Murad iii reigned, wear and tear caused certain parts to collapse. So, the Ottoman empire’s greatest architect, Mimar Sinan, stepped in. He added side walls and buttresses, making the landmark structurally sound. Such was the beauty of the first imperial mosque; every Ottoman sultan left their mark by adding Turkish calligraphy art.
The Ottoman-empire reign lasted for hundreds of years; hence many sultans are buried around Istanbul in tombs. One such place is Hagia Sophia. Ottoman Selim, the second’s tomb, sits within an octagonal mausoleum site. The tomb of Mehmed, the 3rd who killed his brothers to stop them from overthrowing him, includes two domes and, once again, an octagonal layout. Other tombs include Murad the 3rd, his daughter and four sons. Lastly, other tombs include Ibrahim and Sultan Mustafa the 1st.
Conversion into the Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque
In 1935, the famed landmark became an official museum as decreed by Mustafa Kemal Ataturk, the founding father of the Turkish Republic. Then on July 10, 2020, the Turkish government issued decrees transforming the Hagia Sophia into a mosque again. This decision sparked controversy both domestically and internationally. Many saw this as departing from the secular principles of modern Turkey. They raised concerns about preserving the site’s cultural and historical value.
Following the conversion, the Hagia Sophia grand mosque began functioning for Muslims. Instead of bare floors, they installed carpets for Muslims to carry out prayer rituals. Despite becoming a mosque, tourists can still enter outside of prayer times. Virtual tours are on the official website here if you can’t make it.
The Beautiful Interior Decor
The history is impressive, but the interior is even more impressive. When you visit the Hagia Sophia mosque, there are two floors; ground and upper gallery levels. Unfortunately, the upper gallery level is closed off. However, look around the interior. Imagine who crafted those walls, ceilings, and symbolic balustrades. The Hagia Sophia dome, one feature that always captures people’s attention, reaches 56 metres, and 40 windows let in natural daylight.
Once inside Hagia Sophia, I take off my hat. I am standing in a building that is a millennium and a half old. I want nothing to obstruct my vision. As I look up into the dome, which ancients saw as being suspended from heaven on a golden train
In stark contrast, though, famous author Mark Twain, who visited Constantinople and wrote about his travels in his book, “The Innocents Abroad, said…
I do not think much of the Mosque of St. Sophia. I suppose I lack appreciation. We will let it go at that. It is the rustiest old barn in Heathendom. I believe all the interest that attaches to it comes from the fact it was built for a Christian church and then turned into a mosque, without much alteration, by the Mohammedan conquerors.
Marble Columns and Walls
The Hagia Sophia features stunning marble columns and walls creating visually captivating spaces. The building’s original construction during the Byzantine Empire utilised various types of marble, primarily sourced from different regions. The columns, made of different kinds of marble, support the enormous dome, creating grandeur and beauty. Additionally, the walls feature intricate marblework.
Marble slabs, often adorned with delicate patterns and carvings, cover the lower portions. The marble surfaces provide a smooth appearance, adding to the overall elegance. Over time, the Hagia Sophia has undergone modifications and renovations. Some changes have affected the original marble elements. However, efforts have been made to preserve and restore the marble features to maintain historical and aesthetic integrity.
The Four Minarets
The Hagia Sophia currently has four minarets. It had no minarets when constructed initially as a Byzantine cathedral in the 6th century. However, minarets were added to the structure during Ottoman rule. The Ottoman architect Mimar Sinan added two identical minarets to the building in 1575. These two minarets were placed on the southwest and southeast corners.
In 1740, during the reign of Sultan Mahmud I, two additional minarets were added to the structure. These new minarets were placed on the northwest and northeast corners, completing today’s four-minaret design on the Hagia Sophia.The addition of minarets was common during the conversion of Byzantine churches into mosques in the Ottoman Empire, as minarets are traditionally associated with mosques and their call to prayer.
Interesting Facts about the Hagia Sophia in Istanbul
- In Turkey, the landmark is called Ayasofya.
- Hagia Sophia’s name means Church of Holy Wisdom.
- 19th-century Islamic calligraphy plaques were made from wood
- Hagia Sophia was a Christian church for 916 years.
- It was once the world’s largest domed building.
Why is the Hagia Sophia so Important?
Before Istanbul’s conquest by the Ottoman Empire, the Hagia Sophia church was the Byzantine Empire’s religious centre. The building was the realm of what St. Peter’s Basilica is to the Vatican City, i.e., the world’s most important church. Given the religious status, one would easily assume that when the Ottomans invaded, they would destroy the landmark. But they converted the church into a mosque, possibly to send a message to the outside world that a new empire had arrived.
What Does Hagia Sophia Mean?
The name Hagia Sophia means Divine wisdom. Istanbul History books said when construction finished, Emperor Justinian thanked the lord for letting him create such as beautiful masterpiece, then said, “I have outdone you, Solomon,” a reference to one of his generals, who built a majestic temple in Jerusalem.
Can Non-Muslims Visit the Hagia Sophia Mosque?
Non-Muslims are allowed to visit the Hagia Sophia, which is now functioning as a mosque. After converting back into a mosque in 2020, the Turkish government said the Hagia Sophia is open to visitors of all faiths. The Hagia Sophia remains popular due to its historical importance and beauty. Visitors, regardless of religious background, can appreciate the cultural significance of this iconic landmark.
When is the Hagia Sophia Mosque Open?
The mosque opens 24 hours every day. Entrance is free, but be aware this is a place of worship, so avoid visiting during Muslim prayers. Remember, Friday prayer times are hectic since this is the holy day in Islam. Additionally, remember the proper dress code. Women should cover their heads, arms, shoulders, and cleavage. Further, men should wear trousers. You don’t need to book in advance to see Hagia Sophia. Still, an official Istanbul guide with knowledge of history, interior decor, and architecture will enhance your visit.
What is the Difference Between the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia mosque?
The Blue Mosque, officially known as the Sultan Ahmed Mosque, and the Hagia Sophia are two distinct landmarks sitting opposite each other. It is possible to see both in one morning. The major differences are…
Religious Significance: Whereas the Blue Mosque’s purpose has always been as a place of Muslim worship, the Hagia Sophia has a more complex history. Originally built as a cathedral of divine wisdom in the 6th century, the building became a mosque and museum. In 2020, it was converted back into a mosque. The Hagia Sophia carries both Christian and Islamic significance.
Architecture: The Blue Mosque features a large central dome, six minarets, and cascades of domes and semi-domes. Adorned with intricate tilework, the interior boasts blue hues, hence the nickname. The Hagia Sophia’s architecture boasts a massive dome and four minarets. The architectural style blends Byzantine and Ottoman elements, showcasing historical transformations.
Interior Design: The Blue Mosque interior features exquisite Iznik tiles with floral motifs, intricate calligraphy, stained glass windows, and ornate chandeliers. The overall design reflects the Ottoman aesthetic. The interior of the Hagia Sophia showcases mixed Byzantine and Islamic elements. It originally contained intricate mosaics and Christian iconography, some plastered over after the mosque conversion.
Summary: Why is the Hagia Sophia So Famous?
Architecture: Built in the 6th century, it was the largest cathedral in the world for nearly a thousand years. The central dome, supported by massive pendentives, was an engineering feat, and the design influenced later Byzantine and Ottoman architecture.
Historical Significance: The Hagia Sophia has witnessed significant historical events. It served as the principal cathedral of the Byzantine Empire and the religious centre of Eastern Orthodox Christianity for centuries. The crowning of emperors, critical religious ceremonies, and imperial gatherings occurred here. The conversion into a mosque after the Ottoman conquest of Constantinople in 1453 added another layer.
Blend of Cultures and Religions: The Hagia Sophia showcases the fusion of Byzantine and Ottoman religious influences. Originally a Christian cathedral, it features intricate Byzantine mosaics and decorations. Following the conversion into a mosque, Islamic elements such as minarets, a mihrab, and calligraphic inscriptions were incorporated.
Unity and Identity: The Hagia Sophia symbolises Istanbul and Turkey, representing cultural, historical, and religious identities. The Christian cathedral and Islamic Mosque status reflect Istanbul’s diverse heritage.
Also, Visit Nearby
Topkapi Palace: The Ottoman period of Constantinople was the glory days, and other notable buildings still standing include the Topkapi Palace. After the Ottoman Conquest, Topkapi Palace became the home and ruling centre of Fatih Sultan and other Sultans for nearly 500 years. Today, the Topkapi Palace offers visitors glimpses into the lavish lifestyle and grandeur of the Ottoman Empire.
Grand Bazaar of Istanbul: The Grand Bazaar of Istanbul, Turkey, is more than an average shopping mall. The market dates from the 15th century after the Ottomans conquered Constantinople (former Istanbul.) Sultan Mehmet the 2nd ordered the construction. The Grand Bazaar shop rents were then sent to the Hagia Sophia of Istanbul.