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Hagia Sophia History Museum | 3-D exhibits & interactive experiences

Situated close to the active mosque, the Hagia Sophia History Museum is a must-visit for visitors looking to get a closer glimpse into the history and architecture of the mosque. The museum showcases several interactive exhibits, engaging displays, and carefully kept artifacts. Each of these exhibits narrates a slice of Hagia Sophia’s history, from its journey from an Orthodox Cathedral in the 6th century to an Ottoman Mosque in the 14th century to a museum, and then a mosque in the present day.

Why visit the Hagia Sophia History Museum?

Why visit the Hagia Sophia History Museum?
  • A deep dive into the rich history of the mosque: The Hagia Sophia History Museum showcases a plethora of artifacts and artworks from the Byzantine period when the mosque was first established as a church. The museum also offers 3-D displays and interactive exhibits to acquaint their visitors with the complex journey of this church-turned-mosque. 
  • Glimpse into the timeless architecture: The Hagia Sophia History Museum presents many engaging exhibits through which visitors can learn of the number of dynasties that have left their mark on this mosque. Although the Hagia Sophia is a mosque in the present day, it retains several mosaics, arches, and columns, which represent its past as an Orthodox Cathedral.
  • A 3-D experience: One of the best perks of visiting the Hagia Sophia History Museum is its interactive displays. You can zoom in and watch the minarets and arches on the exterior walls. You can also observe the mosaics and artworks closely at your own pace.
What's inside the Hagia Sophia?

Know more about your Hagia Sophia History Museum tickets

Know more about your Hagia Sophia History Museum tickets

Best for: Visitors who are interested in history, art, and architecture
Duration: 30 mins
Inclusions: Audio guide
Note: Only children above 8 years of age are allowed inside this museum.
Flexible cancellation policy: If you book these tickets online, you can cancel them up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund on your purchase.

  • With these Hagia Sophia Museum tickets, you can enjoy skip-the-line access and avoid standing in long lines outside the venue. These tickets also include an audio guide for you to learn about the museum artifacts at your own pace. 
  • These tickets allow you to take a 30-minute tour of the Hagia Sophia History Museum, examine the artifacts, and interact with the 3D displays. 

Recommended tours:

Plan your visit to the Hagia Sophia History Museum

Hagia Sophia history museum timings

Daily: 9am to 7pm

Duration of visit: 30 to 60 minutes

Best time to visit: March to May, September to October

Note: For a quieter visit, choose to reach early in the morning or around late afternoon.

Hagia Sophia opening hours

Address: Binbirdirek, At Meydani Cd. No 10, 34122, Fatih, Istanbul, Turkey
Find on maps

  • By bus: 26A, 28, 46C, 47E, 50E, BN1, EM1
    Nearest stop: Catladikapi- Yenikapi Yonu
  • By train: B1 (Atakoy to Pendik or Halkali to Gebze)
    Nearest station: Sirkeci
  • By metro: M2
    Nearest station: Sirkeci
  • By tram: T1
    Nearest station: Gulhane
  • By car: The distance between the Istanbul International Airport and the Hagia Sophia History Museum is 47.9 km. 
    Nearest parking: Naz Otopark
Hagia Sophia Mosque location

Why is the Hagia Sophia Museum important?

Throughout its history, the Hagia Sophia has been regarded as an icon of religious tolerance and cultural diversity. Built in the 6th century AD, the Hagia Sophia initially functioned as an Orthodox Cathedral. In 1453, when Constantinople fell to the Ottoman Empire, it was converted into a mosque. Its architecture reflects the blending of different civilizations, including Byzantine, Ottoman, and Islamic influences.

The Hagia Sophia History Museum is an important addition near the mosque, for it enables visitors to get a closer look at the mosaics, artworks, and artifacts, and understand the cultural relevance of the mosque. The Hagia Sophia Museum also presents 3-D displays and engaging exhibits for visitors of all ages to get up close with the mosque’s artifacts. The museum offers an innovative way to learn about this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

​Interesting facts about the Hagia Sophia

Frequently asked questions about the Hagia Sophia History Museum

Yes, you need to book Hagia Sophia History Museum tickets to enter the museum. Make sure to purchase skip-the-line tickets to bypass long lines and spend more time exploring the exhibits.

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Getting to the Hagia Sophia

Hagia Sophia architecture

Hagia Sophia Mosque