Hagia Sophia in Istanbul, Turkey, is one of the most iconic and historically significant landmarks in the world. For centuries, this magnificent structure has witnessed numerous transformations, making it a symbol of cultural and religious convergence. Hagia Sophia is not merely a building, but a silent witness to the glory of three great civilizations. From a grand church, later transformed into the Hagia Sophia Mosque, then a museum, and once again a mosque, here are 7 unique facts you may not yet know.
A Brief History: From Church to Mosque
The history of Hagia Sophia began in 537 AD, when Byzantine Emperor Justinian I built it as the largest Orthodox Christian cathedral in the world. For nearly a thousand years, this structure served as the religious center of the Byzantine Empire. However, in 1453, the Ottoman Empire under Sultan Mehmed II conquered Constantinople (the former name of Istanbul). Following the conquest, Sultan Mehmed II transformed it into a grand mosque and added minarets, which are now recognized as the Hagia Sophia Mosque.
A Symbol of Transformation
The dome of Hagia Sophia is one of the greatest architectural achievements of its time. With a diameter of 31 meters and a height of 55 meters, the dome appears to float above the ceiling, supported by 40 windows surrounding its base. This design allows natural light to stream in, creating the illusion that the dome has no visible support. After it became a mosque, Christian mosaics and ornaments inside were covered, and massive Islamic calligraphy panels were addedâcreating a unique blend of two distinct artistic traditions.
The Wishing Column
One of the columns inside Hagia Sophia is known as the âWishing Columnâ or âColumn of Saint Gregory.â This column features a small hole which, according to legend, can cure illnesses if you insert your thumb into it and rotate it 360 degrees. The column is always damp, believed to contain holy water. Visitors from around the world line up to try this ritual, hoping to receive healing.
Unique Design: A Blend of Eastern and Western Architecture
Hagia Sophia seamlessly combines elements of Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman architecture. The grand marble walls, massive pillars, and glittering mosaics are Byzantine legacies, while the mihrab, minbar, and towering minarets are additions from Ottoman architecture. This fusion makes Hagia Sophia an unparalleled masterpiece in the world.
Transformation of Status: From Museum to Mosque Again
In 1934, Mustafa Kemal Atatßrk, the founder of the Republic of Turkey, converted Hagia Sophia into a museum as a symbol of secularism and tolerance. During this period, Christian mosaics that had previously been covered were uncovered and made accessible to the public. However, in July 2020, Hagia Sophia was reconverted into the Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque by the Turkish government and reopened for Friday prayers.
Historical Mosaics Still Hidden
Although many Christian mosaics have been uncovered and displayed, some have yet to be fully explored. One of the most famous mosaics, the DeĂŤsis mosaic, depicts Jesus Christ, the Virgin Mary, and John the Baptist. This mosaic is covered with cloth during prayer times to honor Islamic tradition and revealed again for visitors outside of prayer hours.
Original Name and Its Meaning
The name Hagia Sophia originates from Greek, meaning âHoly Wisdom.â It refers to one of the attributes of God in Orthodox Christian theology. Despite its functions changing multiple times, the name Hagia Sophia has remained timeless and continues to be the buildingâs enduring identity.
Hagia Sophia is a monument that tells much about history, art, and civilization. With these unique facts, the Hagia Sophia Mosque is not only a place of worship or a tourist attraction, but also a life lesson on how history and culture can interact, adapt, and continue to live on.
