- Location and Access
- Located in Sultanahmet Square, Istanbul's Historical Peninsula
- Best reached by tram from Sultanahmet or Gülhane stations
- Open 24/7 for prayer since 2020
- Historical Background
- Built in 6th century by Byzantine Emperor Justinian I
- Originally served as Eastern Orthodox cathedral
- Converted to mosque in 1453
- Transformed into museum in 1935
- Architectural Features
- Features massive dome supported by four arches
- Contains ornate golden mosaics depicting religious figures
- Houses calligraphic medallions with Quranic verses
- Includes 1840 mihrab with prayer niche facing Mecca
- Visitor Information
- Tourist hours: 09:00-20:30 (last entry: 19:30)
- Entrance fee: 25 euros for tourists
- Dress code: shoulder and knee coverage required
- Guided tours recommended for deeper understanding
- Practical Details
- First floor free for Turks
- Shoes must be removed before entering
- Photography allowed but avoid praying areas
- Strollers allowed but must leave before entering