What Does Hagia Sophia Mean? +
From the Greek history, Hagia means Holy and Sophia means Wisdom. Literally it becomes Holy Wisdom. In Latin it’s Sancta Sophia.
When Was Hagia Sophia Turned Into a Mosque? +
Hagia Sophia was opened as a museum in 1934 by the decision of the Council of Ministers. Hagia Sophia was turned into a mosque on Friday the 24th of July, 2020
Why should I Visit Hagia Sophia? +
It’s worth to see Hagia Sophia with its magnificent appearance and architecture with harmony of Christianity and Islam. Moreover, Hagia Sophia was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1985.
What Should I Wear in Hagia Sophia? +
Since it is a mosque with many people praying daily, make sure you wear modest clothes and a headscarf. Also shorts and revealing clothes are forbidden while visiting the Mosque. You should remove your footwear whe you enter, and put it in a bag.
Can I Visit Hagia Sophia Now? +
Yes, you can visit Hagia Sophia, but visits are arranged as guided tours and access may vary depending on prayer times. Please make sure to check the available tour days and time slots in advance before your visit.
Is the Hagia Sophia open to tourists? +
Yes, Hagia Sophia is open to everyone who wants to visit with an entrance ticket. Visitors can only enter the 2nd-floor visiting area.
Is Hagia Sophia open to public? +
Yes, Hagia Sophia is open to the public with an entrance ticket. Only Turkish citizens can enter the main hall at prayer times, other visitors must buy entrance to tickets and can enter only the 2nd-floor visiting area.
Can I enter the main area in Hagia Sophia? +
The main hall will be open only to Turkish citizens for praying; visitors can only enter the 2nd-floor galleries.
Is Hagia Sophia a mosque now? +
Yes, by 2020 Hagia Sophia is a mosque now.
What is the language of the audio guide? +
The audio guide is available in 25 different languages.
Is Hagia Sophia free entry? +
No, starting from January 15th, 2024, there is an entrance fee to visit Hagia Sophia for visitors.
What is the language of the audio guide? +
The audio guide is available in 25 different languages.
Can I take photos during my visit? +
Yes, you are welcome to take photos. However, please be respectful and follow any photography guidelines inside the Mosque.
