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Hagia Sophia is a historic building located in Istanbul, Turkey that has served as a cathedral, mosque, and museum over the course of its nearly 1600-year history. It was originally built as a cathedral in the 6th century AD by the Byzantine Emperor Justinian I and was considered one of the greatest architectural masterpieces of its time, with its massive dome, intricate mosaics, and lavish interior.

After the Ottoman conquest of Constantinople in 1453, Hagia Sophia was converted into a mosque and remained so for almost 500 years. In 1935, the Turkish government turned it into a museum, and it remained so until 2020, when it was reconverted back into a mosque by the Turkish government. Today, Hagia Sophia is a major tourist attraction and a symbol of the rich history of Istanbul and the Ottoman Empire.

The building is famous for its architectural innovations, including its massive dome, which spans over 100 feet in diameter and was considered a major engineering feat at the time of its construction. It is also known for its beautiful mosaics and frescoes, which depict scenes from the life of Jesus Christ and other religious themes. Despite its religious and political importance, Hagia Sophia is also considered a masterpiece of Byzantine architecture and a testament to the artistic and cultural achievements of the time. The building has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and continues to be a popular tourist destination and a source of cultural pride for the people of Turkey.

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