Question 1

Why is the Hagia Sophia so important?

Accepted Answer

Hagia Sophia has been considered to be so important as it is an indispensable part of the Byzantine Empire. It had served as the main centre of the religious, political, and artistic life of the people. Apart from the Byzantine Empire, it was also considered sacred in terms of a mosque after Sultan Mehmed II conquered Istanbul in the year 1453.

Question 2

What was the Hagia Sophia used for?

Accepted Answer

Hagia Sophia was initially built as a Roman Catholic church however, in the year 1453 it was converted into a mosque and later on it was renovated as a museum. In its long history of more than 1500 years, it has been used as a church, a mosque, and an exhibition hall.

Question 3

What does the Hagia Sophia symbolize?

Accepted Answer

Hagia Sophia is  a symbol of harmony, tolerance and peace in Turkey. It is considered sacred and is termed as the meeting point of the world's religion. The entire architecture of the monument represents the involved blend of Islamic arts and symbolic Christianity.