The Hagia Sophia, greek for Holy Wisdom, is one of the most amazing mosques in Istanbul. Before visiting this holy temple, you should know the Hagia Sophia facts and history to ensure a more enlightened visit.

1. The Hagia Sophia history is shaded with ownerships by many religions. Beginning in 360 to 1453 it served as the cathedral of Constantinople (also known as Istanbul). For a brief period, it began the Roman Catholic cathedral of the area.

2. The Hagia Sophia is known for its large dome. This dome is said to have “changed the face of architecture during the Byzantine empire.”

3. The Hagia Sophia has been important in other Byzantine structures. For example, the Blue Mosque Istanbul, or the Sultan Ahmed Mosuqe, incorporates the aspects of architecture from the Ottoman Empire, just as the Hagia Sophia does.

4. While visiting the Hagia Sophia, staying at any of the Istanbul Turkey hotels is a great location to enjoy the wonders of the mosque. Some are centered close enough to walk to the buildings and gardens of the mosque.

5. One of the best Hagia Sophia facts involves the handcrafted mosaics that line the entire temple. The detail and precision of the mosaics will give visitors an artistic experience like none other. Many of the mosaics have survived the re-design of the mosque since 1453.

6. To experience the Hagia Sophia from the water, try one of the Istanbul shore excursions. These guided tours will take visitors around different landmarks of Istanbul, including the Hagia Sophia.

7. One of the hidden artifacts of the mosque is the minarets. One was designed by a famous Ottoman architect, Mimar Sinan. Part of the Hagia Sophia facts that visitors should know as the past the towering sandstone sculpture.

8. One of the most known Hagia Sophia facts involves the windows that surround the mighty dome. Forty windows cover the outside of the dome that is shaped like a shell and the inside of an umbrella.

9. The structure of the massive Hagia Sophia dome begins as a triangle and spirals up to form a rectangular shape. This shape shifting is a classic Byzantine design.

10. The Hagia Sophia was the largest cathedral in the entire world for more than a thousand years.