The Hagia Sophia was built in 537 as a Greek Orthodox, Byzantine Church.

From 1455 to 1931 it was converted to an Imperial Mosque and opened as a museum in 1935.

It’s full name in Greek is Shrine of the Holy Wisdom of God.

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Hagia Sophia was beautifully decorated with mosaics in the centuries during the Byzantine period.

These mosaics depicted the Virgin Mary, Jesus, saints, emperors and empresses.

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During the Ottoman occupation in 1453, mosaics were whitewashed or plastered when the Hagia Sophia was used as a mosque.

Many mosaics were removed and shipped to Venice. The earthquake of 1894 also destroyed some of the beautiful mosaics.

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Shopping is part of your visit to Istanbul!  Rugs, gold jewelry, ceramics and spices! At the bazaars and everywhere on the streets.

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The Grand Bazaar had changed the most from our trip ten years ago. Today it’s light and clean, with only standard souvenirs.

Years ago it was a dark, mysterious place, filled with all things oriental. It was amazing! We wanted to buy everything we saw!

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Today there are rugs, scarves, and every kind of souvenir. But we missed the dark corners, the intrique, and the special finds of the old days!