One of the most significant cities in history, Istanbul, the transcontinental city is known for its decorated Byzantine and Ottoman architecture

Privy Chamber of Murat III in Topkapi Palace

Entrance to the courtyard of Harem which is decorated with Iznik tiles in the interior

Beautifully detailed ceiling and stained glass windows of twin Kiosk, Harem

Topkapi Palace, Istanbul

The amazingly detailed architecture in Istanbul monuments

The name originates from Greek which means Holy Wisdom. It is a former orthodox patriarchal basilica, later a mosque, and now a museum in Istanbul, Turkey. Famous in particular for its massive dome, it is considered the epitome of Byzantine architecture. The largest cathedral in the world for nearly thousand years, until Sevile cathedral was completed in 1520!

For almost 500 years, Hagia Sophia was the principal mosque of Istanbul and served as a model for many other Ottoman mosques, such as the Blue Mosque, Suleymaniye Mosque, and others.

Hagia Sophia is lit inside by the many beautiful low hanging Chandeliers. The chandeliers were lit up by candles in past which has now been replaced by bulbs.