Little Hagia Sophia — Attraction in Fatih

A quiet gem steeped in Islamic history – serene, sacred, and too often overlooked.

Tucked away in the Sultanahmet district, just a short walk from the main tourist arteries, lies one of Istanbul’s most underrated spiritual sites: Küçük Ayasofya Camii, known in English as the Little Hagia Sophia Mosque. It’s far less crowded than its larger namesake, but in many ways, just as significant – a sanctuary of peace, history, and understated beauty.

Originally built around 536 CE by Emperor Justinian as the Church of Saints Sergius and Bacchus, it predates the Hagia Sophia itself and is widely believed to have served as its architectural prototype. After the Ottoman conquest of Constantinople, the building was gracefully converted into a masjid – another beautiful symbol of Islam’s ability to embrace and elevate historical spaces for worship.

Though modest in scale, the architecture is stunning: a domed interior that feels spacious yet intimate, supported by elegant marble columns and adorned with Qur'anic inscriptions and Islamic motifs added during its transformation. The balance between early Byzantine structure and Ottoman-Islamic embellishment is masterful – you’re literally seeing two eras of civilisation woven into one sacred space.

Spiritually, it’s a different pace. Unlike the bustling atmosphere of Hagia Sophia or the Blue Mosque, Little Hagia Sophia is profoundly tranquil. You can sit quietly, reflect, pray, or simply appreciate the architectural genius without the pressure of crowds or camera flashes. The acoustics carry the adhan beautifully, and it’s not uncommon to find locals reciting Qur’an softly in a corner.

Tips and practical info:

Getting there: It’s just a 7–10 minute walk downhill from the Blue Mosque, past Arasta Bazaar. Follow signs to Küçük Ayasofya Caddesi or ask any local – it’s well-known in the area. Use Sultanahmet or Cankurtaran tram stations as your base.

Entry is free, as with all mosques, and open throughout the day except during prayer times. It’s an active masjid, so dress modestly and remove shoes before entering.

Ideal time to visit: Late morning or after Asr – calm, naturally lit, and fewer people around. Perfect for a quiet spiritual stop.

There’s a small garden courtyard, a lovely shaded spot with fountains and benches. An ideal place to rest or reflect between sightseeing stops.

No large tour groups here – which is a blessing. If you want to experience a masjid in Istanbul as the locals do, this is it.

A little-known historical gem: Many don’t realise this was once one of the most important churches in the Byzantine Empire – a royal chapel of sorts. Its conversion to a mosque was done with immense care and reverence. The structure has been restored multiple times, most recently with UNESCO involvement, ensuring its preservation for generations to come.

Final verdict: If you’re in Sultanahmet and want a moment of peace away from the touristic chaos, Little Hagia Sophia is an absolute must. It’s spiritually rich, historically layered, and refreshingly uncrowded. For Muslims, it’s a place to reconnect quietly. For non-Muslims, it offers a warm, respectful insight into how Islam honours and protects historical legacies.

A place of hushed beauty and heartfelt history – visit it not to tick a box, but to find stillness in the heart...

The small Hagia Sophia mosque, also known as the Mosque of Sokollu Mehmed Pasha, is a hidden gem in Istanbul that should not be missed. Located in the historic district of Sultanahmet, this mosque was once a Byzantine church known as the Church of Saints Sergius and Bacchus, built in the 6th century.

The mosque's architecture is a unique blend of Byzantine and Ottoman styles, with a central dome and four smaller domes surrounding it. The interior is decorated with intricate calligraphy and geometric patterns, while the exterior features stone masonry and delicate minarets.

One of the highlights of this mosque is its peaceful and serene atmosphere, which offers a welcome escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. Visitors can sit and admire the beautiful architecture, or take a moment for quiet contemplation.

Despite its smaller size, the small Hagia Sophia mosque is an important landmark in Istanbul's history and is worth a visit for anyone interested in the city's cultural heritage. Its location, tucked away in a quiet neighborhood, adds to its charm and makes it a unique destination for travelers seeking a more authentic experience.

Overall, the small Hagia Sophia mosque is a must-see attraction in Istanbul that offers a glimpse into the city's rich and diverse history. Its blend of architectural styles and peaceful atmosphere make it a true gem and a welcome respite from the hustle and bustle of...

Stayed next to this mosque. A little gem away from the hustle and bustle of Sultan Ahmet Square (where Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia are). This was also a church at some point and has its own historical significance. The architect is also buried close by. The architecture and exterior colour scheme is similar to that of Hagia Sofia and the interior while distinct follows the Ottoman theme which is seen in almost every other mosque. Nice quiet mosque with few tourist so if you need a break, make sure to head over and spend some time here. Within its court yard is a little graden with a non touristic cafe restaurant (small menu and cheap food) and of course the artisan workshops where we found some lovely handmade mother of pearl and semi precious stones jewellery, ceramic works, magnets and paintings etc. Lots of resident cats that kids interacted with. One cat took the liberty of jumping into my lap as i was having Turkish Coffee at the cafe in the court yard. And then there was a special music evening (not a regular occurrence). Lots of history around in the surrounding buildings and streets, lots of restaurants and shops and couple of beautiful parks, an active train track pretty much next the mosque, and a walk and scooter track next to the train track, and also close to the seaside which is teeming with fishermen and local and foreign tourists...