Hagia Sophia

Museum Fatih, Istanbul, Turkey
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What to expect

Hagia Sophia, a masterpiece of Byzantine architecture, is a former church and mosque that has been a major cultural and historical site in Istanbul, Turkey. The current structure was built by the Byzantine emperor Justinian I between 532 and 537, and it is considered one of the greatest surviving examples of Byzantine architecture. The building has a breathtaking dome that appears to be hanging in the air, monolithic marble columns, and unparalleled mosaics. It has been a place of worship for over 1,500 years, first as a church, then as a mosque, and it continues to be an important cultural and historical site today. With its rich history, stunning architecture, and beautiful mosaics, Hagia Sophia is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in history, architecture, and culture

Plan your family visit to the Hagia Sophia with these blog insights 👇

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What did we see in a week in Istanbul with a child in an uncomfortable stroller?

What did we see in a week in Istanbul with a child in an uncomfortable stroller?
This family's experience:

Activities: We visited Hagia Sophia, a monumental building that has been a church, a mosque, and a museum. It's a wonder of its time, a witness to the coronation of emperors and sultans, a center of different cultures

Highlights: We felt the history and cultural significance of Hagia Sophia. It was interesting to see it as a museum ✨

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What to do and visit in Istanbul with family: complete guide

What to do and visit in Istanbul with family: complete guide
This family's experience:

Activities: We visited the Basilique Sainte-Sophie, the largest of all Byzantine churches built during the time when Istanbul was still called Constantinople

Highlights: The kids enjoyed the mosaics and the search for the wishing hole ✨

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(Tip!) Istanbul with kids: 20 family activities!

(Tip!) Istanbul with kids: 20 family activities!
This family's experience:

Activities: We visited this mosque briefly and viewed it inside. Count on seeing it within 15 minutes

Highlights: We enjoyed visiting this mosque briefly and viewing it inside ✨

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An Istanbul City Break with Kids, Turkey

An Istanbul City Break with Kids, Turkey
This family's experience:

Activities: We sat on wooden benches between the Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque in the evenings and enjoyed the views of the city

Highlights: We loved watching the light show as the sun went down, with floodlights illuminating the seagulls and the imams calling the faithful to prayer ✨