The Great Transition

4.3 The Four Minarets of Hagia Sophia

The four minarets of Hagia Sophia were not built at once; they were added sequentially by different Sultans over nearly 150 years. This gradual addition reflects the mosque’s evolution into the premier symbol of Ottoman power.

The First Minaret: Sultan Mehmed II (c. 1453–1460)

Location: The southeast corner (above the library). Immediately after the conquest, a wooden minaret was erected for the first prayer. Shortly after, it was replaced by this permanent brick minaret. It is distinct from the others because of its material and reddish hue.

The Second Minaret: Sultan Bayezid II (c. 1481–1512)

Location: The northeast corner. Mehmed’s son, Bayezid II, added this slender stone minaret which was built of white limestone.