Hagia Sophia

The Hagia Sophia church displays a central dome resting on a square base, with marble columns supporting intricate architectural elements throughout the structure.

Built in the 8th century on the ruins of a 4th-century basilica, the church served as the city's cathedral until its conversion to a mosque in 1523.

The interior walls feature preserved mosaics from three different periods, depicting religious figures and scenes that represent Byzantine artistic traditions.

The church opens daily from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM and 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM, with entrance restricted to visitors wearing appropriate clothing.

The building incorporates a transitional cross-in-square design, marking an evolution from the basilica style to domed architecture in religious structures.

Location: Thessaloniki Municipality

Inception: 7 century

Architectural style: Byzantine architecture

Accessibility: Wheelchair inaccessible

Part of: Paleochristian and Byzantine monuments of Thessaloniki

GPS coordinates: 36.19303,29.84961

Latest update: May 27, 2025 09:54