Trabzon Ayasofya (Hagia Sophia) Museum of Turkey

Trabzon is one of the two biggest cities along the Turkish seacoast, together with Samsun. But thanks to its historical meaning, Trabzon is basically just like the unofficial “capital” of this region. 

It isn’t as popular among tourists as Istanbul or Antalya, but it's really interesting. Historically called Trebizond it absolutely was the capital city of the Empire of Trebizond between 1204 and 1461. This empire stretched along almost the complete southern coast of the Black Sea and was one among parts of the disintegrating Byzantium.
 

Trabzon AyaSofya Museum 

Being one of the foremost beautiful samples of late Byzantine churches, the building encompasses a high-caliber dome with three entrances to the north, west and south of the portico. The dome of the building is roofed with various vaults over it.
 

In addition to Christian art, the results of the Seljuk Period Islamic art are seen within the ornaments where superior stone workmanship is seen. It sits at the western entrance of town along the highway. This museum is one of the most important buildings of Byzantine monuments in Trabzon. Between 1238 and 1263, during the time of Manuel Komnenos I, it had been built as a monastery church with the employment of the Byzantine style, the Georgian dome, and therefore the harmony with the Seljuk stone procession. After the conquest of Trabzon by Sultan Mehmet the Conqueror, it was converted into a mosque in 1511 and has become a foundational work. 

The building, which was used as a mosque for several years, underwent a radical repair in 1864. It absolutely was used as a mosque after being used as a depot and infirmary for a long time during War I. It had been restored in 1958-1962 with the cooperation of the overall Directorate of Foundations and Edinburgh University, and also the frescoes were cleaned and so opened as a museum after 1964. 

The construction of the tower, 25 meters west of the museum, dates back to 1426-27. It's thought that it absolutely was wont to watch the celebrities, even to show astronomy, further as being employed as a chance of a lighthouse. 

On Friday, June 28, 2013, prayers were made and a prayer opened the building again as a mosque after 52 years. The building, which is employed as a mosque and whose historical features are preserved, is receptive to domestic and foreign visitors. Ayasofya encompasses a complex history. 

It had been built as a Catholic church between 1238 and 1263 within the time of Trebizond emperor Manuel I. Probably right after the conquest of the town in 1461 by Ottoman Sultan Mehmed II Hagia Sophia was converted into a mosque. In the 20th century there was a makeshift hospital and depot during warfare I. 

In 1964 Hagia Sophia was a museum, but now (from 5 July 2013) it's hybrid status: operating mosque and a museum at the same time.
 

FAQS

Q1. What is the history of the Hagia Sophia in Trabzon?

The Hagia Sophia in Trabzon was built between 1238 and 1263 during the reign of Manuel I Komnenos of the Empire of Trebizond. Originally a Greek Orthodox church, it is one of the finest examples of late Byzantine architecture. After the Ottoman conquest of Trabzon in 1461, it was later converted into a mosque in 1511. During World War I, Russian forces used it as a military depot and infirmary. Between 1958 and 1962, the building was restored, and in 1964, it was opened as a museum. In 2013, it was reconverted into a mosque but remains open to visitors.

Q2. Is it worth to visit Trabzon Hagia Sophia museum?

Yes, the Hagia Sophia in Trabzon is worth visiting for its stunning Byzantine architecture, well-preserved frescoes, and rich history. It offers a unique blend of Christian and Ottoman influences and remains open to visitors despite being a mosque.
 
 

Q3. What's inside Trabzon Hagia Sophia museum?

Inside the Hagia Sophia in Trabzon, you’ll find well-preserved Byzantine frescoes, intricate stone carvings, and a unique blend of Christian and Ottoman influences. The central dome, supported by vaults, showcases detailed artwork, while the interior reflects the building’s layered history as a church, mosque, and museum.

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