Hagia Sophia, Iznik, Byzantine religious structure in Iznik, Turkey
Description
Hagia Sophia in Iznik is a place of worship from Byzantine times with a central nave flanked by two side aisles. The walls display Islamic elements added later that shape the appearance of the interior.
History
The building's origins go back to the 4th century, though it was rebuilt in 1065. Its conversion to a mosque took place in 1331, after it had served as an important gathering place for religious councils.
Culture
The structure carries names reflecting different eras and shows how believers of various faiths used the space over time. You can still see traces of both traditions in the decorations and how the space is organized.
Practical
Visitors can enter the place of worship outside of prayer times to see its architecture and interior layout. It helps to wear respectful clothing and follow the rules for sacred spaces.
Did you know?
During restoration work between 2007 and 2011, experts uncovered layers from different time periods beneath the surfaces. These discoveries reveal how the spaces were altered and adapted over centuries.
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide. Discover all places nearby (İznik).
Osmangazi Bridge
40.1 km
İzmit Clock Tower
40.8 km
USS Gudgeon / TCG Hızırreis
40.4 km
SEKA Paper Museum
40.3 km
USS Eversole
40.4 km
Orhan Mosque
41.4 km
Yalova Airbase
40.7 km
Sultan Abdülaziz Imperial Lodge
40.8 km
Pertev Paşa Mosque
41.2 km
Kocaeli Museum
40.6 km
Fevziye Mosque
41 km
Obelisk of Gaius Cassius Philiscus
6.7 km
Hereke Kalesi
40.6 km
Kaiser II. Wilhelm Mansion
40.4 km
Nilüfer Hatun Imareti
490 m
Silicon Valley of Turkey
43.7 km
Selim Sırrı Pasha Mansion
41.1 km
Seka Park
40 km
Monastery of the Dormition in Nicaea
478 m
Kuzuyayla Nature Park
41.4 km
Portakal Hafız Mansion
41.6 km
Yumurtacı Mosque
41 km
Saatçi Ali Efendi Mansion
41.4 km
Servetiye Museum
28.7 km
Hereke Silk Weaving and Carpet Factory
40.4 km
Bilecik Belediyesi Su Eğlence Dünyası
42 km
Bağçeşme Mosque
41.4 km
Canfeda Kethüda Hâtun Fountain
41.4 kmDiscover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes