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Historic church and mosque · Trebizonda, Trebizonda
Trabzon Ayasofya Camii
Former Byzantine church, used as a mosque, with architecture, reliefs and painted areas along the coast.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Trabzon Ayasofya Camii
The Hagia Sophia of Trebizonda is a former Byzantine church by the shoreline, used as a mosque.
The building preserves architectural and painted elements linked to the period of the Empire of Trebizonda. The visit allows observation of volumes, reliefs and areas with figurative decoration, according to the permitted route. It is not Istanbul’s Hagia Sophia: this is a different monument, with its own scale and context.
Plan your entry outside prayer times and follow the site’s instructions. Shoulders and knees should remain covered; women cover their hair. Also allow time outside to observe the building in its setting and the relationship between its architecture and the coastal landscape.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
From 45 minutes to an hour and a half.
Best time
The visit to Trebizonda’s Hagia Sophia should take place outside prayer times; also leave a period of daylight to observe the reliefs and volumes from the exterior.
How to get there
From Trabzon’s center, head west by urban transport or taxi to the Ayasofya area.
Tip
First observe the exterior and check which interior areas are open to visitors.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Trabzon Ayasofya Camii
Does the Hagia Sophia of Trebizonda function as a church or a mosque?
The building of Byzantine origin is used as a mosque. Tourist visits must accommodate the religious use and take place outside prayer times.
What to look for on the exterior of Trabzon Ayasofya?
Massing and reliefs help read the architecture before entering the permitted spaces. Allow time around the site, as the monument’s interest is not restricted to the interior paintings.
How to prepare to enter Trabzon Ayasofya?
Wear clothing that covers shoulders and knees; women need to cover their hair. On arrival, follow the guidance about accessible areas and visitor circulation.