Hagia Sophia Basilica is a former Greek Orthodox Christian patriarchal basilica, later an Ottoman imperial mosque and now a museum in Istanbul, Turkey. Built in 537 AD, it was famous in particular for its massive dome and its remarkable architecture. It is considered the epitome of Byzantine architecture and is said to have “changed the history of architecture”.
The Hagia Sophia Basilica is located in the historical center of Istanbul and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It was built as a church by the Byzantine Emperor Justinian I and is one of the most important surviving examples of Byzantine architecture. The Hagia Sophia is also renowned for its massive dome, which is said to be the largest in the world at 32 meters (105 feet) in diameter. The Hagia Sophia was the largest cathedral in the world for nearly a thousand years, until the completion of the Seville Cathedral in 1520.
Architecture and Design
The Hagia Sophia is an impressive building, both inside and out. The exterior is composed of large brick walls, with four minarets rising from the corners. The interior is dominated by the huge central dome, supported by four huge piers. The dome is decorated with elaborate mosaics, and the walls are adorned with intricate marble panels. The Hagia Sophia also features a grand entrance hall, numerous side chapels, and a beautiful courtyard.
History
The Hagia Sophia was originally built as a Christian basilica in 537 AD by the Byzantine Emperor Justinian I. It was the seat of the Patriarch of Constantinople and the center of the Eastern Orthodox Church. The Hagia Sophia was damaged by earthquakes in the 7th and 8th centuries, and was restored by the Byzantine Emperor Leo III in the 9th century. It remained a Christian church until the fall of Constantinople to the Ottomans in 1453, when it was converted into a mosque.
Ottoman Period
During the Ottoman period, the Hagia Sophia was used as a mosque. It was adorned with Islamic decorations, including four minarets and a mihrab. The interior of the Hagia Sophia was also modified to accommodate Islamic prayer. In the 19th century, the building was restored by Sultan Abdülmecid I and the interior was decorated with a mixture of Islamic and Christian art.
Museum
In 1935, the Hagia Sophia was converted into a museum by the Republic of Turkey. The building is now open to the public and is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Istanbul. It has become a symbol of the city and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Legacy
The Hagia Sophia has had a major influence on the history of architecture. Its massive dome and intricate mosaics have inspired architects around the world, and it is often cited as one of the most important buildings in the world. It is also an important symbol of the city of Istanbul, and is a major tourist attraction.
Features
- Dome: The dome of the Hagia Sophia is one of its most distinctive features. It is 32 meters (105 feet) in diameter and is said to be the largest in the world.
- Mosaics: The interior of the Hagia Sophia is adorned with intricate mosaics, which were created during the Byzantine and Ottoman periods.
- Marble Panels: The walls of the Hagia Sophia are decorated with beautiful marble panels, which were created during the Byzantine period.
- Courtyard: The Hagia Sophia features a beautiful courtyard, which is surrounded by four minarets.