The existing structure of the church was built-in the 11th century, and it absolutely was converted right into a mosque following the Ottoman Empire conquered Constantinople while in the 15th century. In 1948, it was turned into a museum.

Bypass the ticketing queue Using these skip-the-line tickets to Hagia Sophia (you have to nonetheless go through the necessary protection line), selected as being a UNESCO Globe Heritage Website by having an audio guidebook available in 23 languages.

There are lots of historical places in Istanbul to find out and so a lot of things to know so what are you looking ahead to?

Regardless of currently being a preferred attraction, admission is strictly managed For the reason that mosque continues to be utilized for religious needs. Rumelihisarı

The automobiles for transfers had been all really snug with seat belts and motorists provided water for extended visits. The drivers have been helpful and spoke English properly ample for productive conversation. My only criticism with the drivers is that most drove quite rapidly which made us just a little anxious.

Hagia Sophia, also known as the Church from the Holy Wisdom or perhaps the Church of the Divine Knowledge, is really an ancient Byzantine church in Istanbul and one of many world’s great finest architectural will work, as well as approved since the 8th ponder of the entire world.

Designed between 1609-1616 by Sultan Ahmet I so that you can assert Ottoman power, this most impressive and endlessly photographed of mosques encompasses a cascade of layered domes and it is cornered by 6 minarets adorning the skyline. The outside courtyard, the most important of all Ottoman mosques’, correctly matches the dimensions on the Blue-İznik-tiles-protected interiors, numbering from the tens of hundreds, supplying it the nickname on the Blue Mosque.

Topkapi Palace is essential-see historical place in Istanbul that was as soon as the home of Ottoman Sultans for nearly 400 years. This is a extensive advanced of structures and gardens that provide visitors a glimpse in to the opulent Way of life from the Ottoman Empire.

The mosque contains a central dome that is definitely fifty three meters significant and 26 meters in diameter. The dome is supported by 4 significant pillars and decorated with intricate calligraphy and geometric styles.

Yet another placing aspect may be the grand minarets that rise majestically through the framework. Initially designed as Element of its conversion right into a mosque, these towering spires incorporate a singular silhouette for the skyline of Istanbul.

You may delve deep in the community history by paying out a visit to Yedikule Castle, get more info which dates back again to 413 and is also well-known for its dungeons. The castle was crafted with the Japanese Roman Emperor II, Theodosius, and concluded in 439.

Probably the most appealing features from the Basilica Cistern is The 2 Medusa heads that are employed as column bases. These ancient relics are believed to happen to be introduced from the pagan temple and are integrated into the cistern's design and style. It's a superior location to visit to escape the climate.

Jews have very long been a Portion of Istanbul’s social and cultural landscape, contributing appreciably…

Ironically, the setting up was harmed by many fires from the 18th and 19th hundreds of years, Regardless of getting used with the Ottomans for spotting blazes while in the city from 1717.