Cool facts about Hagia Sophia

Posted on Aug 16, 2025 / Travel

Hagia Sophia was the world’s largest cathedral for almost 1,000 years until Seville Cathedral was completed in 1520.
The name “Hagia Sophia” means “Holy Wisdom” in Greek.
It has survived multiple earthquakes over the centuries, thanks to its advanced engineering design.
Some of its marble columns were brought from ancient temples in Greece and Rome.
The Ottomans added four minarets, giving it its iconic mosque silhouette.
Its mosaics include Christian depictions of Christ and the Virgin Mary alongside Islamic calligraphy of Allah and Muhammad.
UNESCO recognizes Hagia Sophia as part of the Historic Areas of Istanbul World Heritage Site.

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