Visiting Saint Sophia
While entering the church through the main
gate, visitors notice the remains of the Teodosius' church, discovered 1935 by a
German archaeologist, Alfonce Maria Scnedier. in a deep trench. The flight of
steps, carvings depicting sheep which symbolize the apostles and architectural
pieces lying on the ground are the only items left from the second church. After
the outer narthex, visitors are welcomed by one of the magnificent mosaics which
depicts Christ enthroned, Mary and Archangel Gabriel and Byzantine Emperor Leo
the Wise who is depicted on his knees. Leo who ruled in the tenth century pray
to enthroned Christ. Visitors enter the church through the Imperial Gate which
was only for the use of Holly Byzantine Emperor who was considered "the
shadow of the God on earth". Two worn-down spots, located, on the either
side of the gate were used by imperial guards.
Saint Sophia' Dome
As soon as visitors enter the church, the
revolutionary plan of the church fascinates them. Genius architects of Saint
Sophia accomplished an amazing transition from the rectangular plan to domed
basilica without use of forest of coleus. The dome which has 31 meters diameter
and 55 meter height was the greatest dome of antiquity
The Coronation Place
The area which is surrounded by a chain was
the coronation place for Holy Byzantine Emperors.
Ottoman Centuries
During its use as a mosque, following the
Muslim faith and tradition certain things were altered in Saint Sophia. Since
the Muslim faith forbade images, they were covered over. A mihrap which
indicates the direction of Mekke and a pulpit which was used by the Muslim
priest to give a sermon were added Also famous calligraphist of the Ottoman
Empire embellished the building with calligraphy.
