Aya Sofya (Hagia Sophia)
Istanbul
Copyright: Hasan Akbas/unsplash.comAya Sofya (Hagia Sophia)
Aya Sofya is a remarkable mixture of Christianity and Islam, a church with minarets and a mosque with pictures of the Virgin Mary (now covered up, unfortunately). The building is one of the wonders of world architecture. Its 32-metre main dome has stood firm since Aya Sofya's completion in 537 CE. Yes, that's almost one and a half thousand years ago. Originally constructed as a Christian church, the temple has since been a mosque, then a museum, and now once again acts as a mosque.
Do & See
Istanbul is a vibrant city whose grandiose history is utterly fascinating. Take a stroll around the city and admire the amazing mosques, museums and the Great Bazaar, or even visit an authentic Turkish bath.