Justinian Hagia Sophia is a majestic building in Istanbul, Turkey, built in the 6th century during the reign of Byzantine Emperor Justinian I. Hagia Sophia is one of the most iconic monuments in the world and is renowned for its magnificent interior and exterior architecture. The building is a prime example of Byzantine art and architecture, and it has served as a church, a mosque, and a museum over its long and storied history.
Early History
The first Hagia Sophia was constructed in 537 CE and was the third basilica on the site. It was built by the orders of Emperor Justinian I to replace an earlier basilica that had been destroyed during the Nika riots. The new Hagia Sophia was intended to be a grand building, and it was designed by the famous architects Isidore of Miletus and Anthemius of Tralles. Construction of the building was completed in 537 and it quickly became the largest church in the world. Hagia Sophia served as the seat of the Patriarch of Constantinople and the center of Eastern Orthodox Christianity.
Architecture and Art
Hagia Sophia is renowned for its spectacular architecture and art. The building is an excellent example of Byzantine architecture and features a massive central dome surrounded by four smaller domes. The dome is supported by a complex system of arches and semi-domes. Inside, the church is decorated with exquisite mosaics and marble columns, as well as elaborate wall paintings. The most famous of these is the Deesis mosaic, which depicts Jesus flanked by the Virgin Mary and John the Baptist.
Ottoman Period
In 1453, Hagia Sophia was captured by the Ottoman Turks. The building was converted into a mosque, and it served as the primary mosque of the Ottoman Empire until 1935. During this period, the interior of the building was decorated with Islamic art and Arabic inscriptions. The minarets were added during this period, and the building was used for Islamic prayer and worship.
Modern Era
In 1935, Hagia Sophia was converted into a museum. During this period, the building was extensively restored and many of the Islamic art and inscriptions were removed. Today, the building is open to the public as a museum and is a popular tourist attraction. It is one of the most iconic monuments in the world and is a symbol of Istanbul’s rich cultural history.
Conclusion
Justinian Hagia Sophia is a magnificent building in Istanbul, Turkey, and is one of the most iconic monuments in the world. The building was originally constructed in 537 CE and has served as a church, a mosque, and a museum over its long history. Hagia Sophia is renowned for its spectacular architecture and art, and it is a symbol of Istanbul’s rich cultural history. Today, the building is open to the public as a museum and is a popular tourist attraction.