Ayasofya, also known as the Hagia Sophia, is a historic architectural marvel located in Istanbul, Turkey. Originally built as a cathedral in 537 AD during the reign of the Byzantine Emperor Justinian I, it served as the world's largest cathedral for nearly a thousand years. Its stunning dome and intricate mosaics showcase the artistic achievements of the Byzantine Empire. In 1453, after the conquest of Constantinople by the Ottoman Empire, Ayasofya was converted into a mosque. It remained a mosque for nearly 500 years before being transformed into a museum in 1935. In 2020, it was reconverted into a mosque, continuing to be a symbol of cultural and religious significance.