Top image: Inside the Hagia Sophia in Istanbul, Turkey.

The Hagia Sophia in Istanbul, Turkey, boasts a captivating history. Originally built as a cathedral in 532 AD during the Byzantine Empire , it reigned as the world's largest cathedral for nearly a millennium. Its awe-inspiring dome, designed by Anthemius of Tralles and Isidore of Miletus, represented architectural brilliance. Now you can see inside with the BBC’s 360° tour.

In 1453, following the Ottoman conquest, the Hagia Sophia was transformed into a mosque, featuring added minarets and Islamic interior modifications. Serving as a significant Islamic religious site for about 500 years, it held profound cultural and spiritual importance. In 1935, under the Republic of Turkey, it was secularized and transitioned into a museum, symbolizing Turkey's secular aspirations and welcoming diverse visitors from across the globe. Nevertheless, on July 24, 2020, a decision was made to revert the Hagia Sophia back into a mosque, sparking debates regarding its historical and cultural significance.