Saint Sophia Cathedral, Istanbul
Saint Sophia Cathedral, also known as 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. The structure is renowned for its massive dome and stunning mosaics, showcasing the artistic achievements of the Byzantine Empire.
In 1453, following the conquest of Constantinople by the Ottoman Empire, the cathedral was converted into a mosque. It remained a mosque for nearly five centuries until it was secularized and transformed into a museum in 1935. In 2020, it was reconverted into a mosque, while still welcoming visitors from around the world.