The Aya Sofia, or Hagia Sophia, is one of Istanbul’s most prominent attractions. I read stories about its size and beauty before my arrival into Turkey back in October, so I figured I was in for a treat.
I had no idea, however, that it would be so big… or so awe-inspiring. Rather than try to fill this page with a huge list of cliches and overused expressions, I figured I’d let the images do the talking for me. Enjoy!
It just so happens that I got the pleasure of experiencing this landmark with Beth and Randy of BeersandBeans.com. Be sure to keep an eye out for Beth’s glorious Aya Sofia images.
American girl left to travel the world in 2007. Studied languages, slept in a yurt, taught English, met Aussie guy and fell in love. Moved to Australia. Calls Sydney home. Wants a puppy. Still loves to travel. Read more 
Beautiful photos. The Aya Sofia is just one of many reasons why I’d love to go to Turkey.
It’s not hard to take beautiful photos when the subject is that good
I hope you get to see it someday.
What a gorgeous building! Another reason for me to visit Istanbul.
There are so many reasons to visit Istanbul!
It’s soooo pretty. I can’t wait to see it myself someday.
It was so pretty… you’ll get a crick in your neck from looking up so much
Love these photos! Every person I met from Istanbul is SO proud of Aya Sofia. It’s easy to see why.
No doubt… and to think it was built over 1400 years ago is even more interesting!
I’m planning a trip to Turkey next year, so will definitely have to check Aya Sofia out and see it with my own eyes!
Definitely recommend it!
Beautiful photos! I had no idea it also went by the name of Aya Sofia!
I might be calling it wrong… but its the Hagia Sophia, Aya Sophia, Aya Sofia and Aya Sofya as I’ve found around the web. Aya Sofia is the way I’ve always spelled it.
Did you get a guide explaining things to you at all? I understood so much from that, little things like noticing the ‘x’ marks in the ground that were used to help place the dome on top… great shots, I was as inspired as you when I saw it! Istanbul blew me away, which I really didn’t expect – I was there for 8 days!
No we didn’t do the tour, but now I’m wishing we had!
Great photos. My photos don’t do any justice, I didn’t have a good camera when I went years ago
Absolutely beautiful when the sun is setting isn’t it!
Gorgeous place! As long as you have the memories, that’s better than a photo, right
Gorgeous photos! Aya Sofia was one of my favorite things about Istanbul. I loved the strange history of multiple religions…the hidden mosaics were so cool!
23 great shots of the Aya Sofia in Istanbul. You captured it well.
What an amazing building!
Great shots Brooke!!! Love them ALL!
I never really warmed up to Aya Sofia, and I can’t explain why.
Beautiful! I would love to go there one day.
SO PRETTY!