Sophia | Name Meaning & Origin

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The name Sophia is derived from the Greek word for "wisdom." In early religious and philosophical texts, characters who personified wisdom are referred to as "Sophia figures."

Famous bearers include actress Sophia Loren, Sophia Myles and Sophia Bush. Sophia of Hanover was the mother of British king George I. She was expected to accede to the throne following the death of Queen Anne, but died a few weeks too early.

The Hagia Sophia (meaning 'Holy Wisdom') is a building in Istanbul, Turkey. It has been a basilica or cathedral, a mosque and is now a museum. It is a prime example of Byzantine architecture. Sophia is also the name of a university in Tokyo.