Image for Ayasofya (Hagia Sophia)

Ayasofya (Hagia Sophia)

Hagia Sophia, located in Istanbul, Turkey, is a historic architectural marvel that has served as a church, mosque, and museum over its long history. Originally built in 537 AD as an Eastern Orthodox cathedral, it features massive domes, intricate mosaics, and elegant marble work, symbolizing Byzantine architecture. It later became a mosque after the Ottoman conquest in 1453, with added Islamic features like minarets. In 1935, it was converted into a museum, showcasing its cultural and religious significance across Christian and Islamic eras. In 2020, it was reconverted into a mosque, remaining open to visitors while retaining its historical importance.