satish padmanabhan

Review of Santa Sofía

It s perhaps one of the most magnificent structure...

It s perhaps one of the most magnificent structure that still stands strong after 1500 years since being built and has witnessed massive events unfold around it, two powerful religions and empires controlled the monument for their beliefs and legitimacy. Inside walls hold visible signs of Christianity and Islam being practiced in past. The domes are amazing and so is the upper floor which is high, historic and still very strong. Clearly royals of both Byzantine and Ottomans loved to leave a legacy in and around the monument with many prominent sultans tombs being well preserved. Many cafes, local gift shops surround the complex and it s well accessible from tram and roads. Don t miss it as it evokes so much of how we reached the 21st century!