History

An 800x600 image depicting a Catholic bishop and an Orthodox Patriarch having a heated argument in front of Hagia Sophia.
History

The Great Schism and Hagia Sophia

Introduction Hagia Sophia, a jewel of Byzantine architecture and a symbol of ecclesiastical power, stands as a witness to centuries of religious history. This article delves into the critical role of Hagia Sophia during the Great Schism of 1054, a

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A detailed and realistic scene of stone masons constructing the Hagia Sophia in 400 AD, before the addition of minarets. The image shows a bustling co
History

Construction of Hagia Sophia Under Justinian I

I. Introduction The construction of Hagia Sophia stands as a testament to the ambition and architectural genius of the Byzantine era. Initiated under the reign of Emperor Justinian I, this magnificent structure not only exemplified grandeur but also marked a

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Point of view of Hagia Sophia
History

Hagia Sophia as the Great Church (“Megale Ekklesia”)

Introduction In the heart of ancient Constantinople, now Istanbul, stands Hagia Sophia, a monument that has witnessed the ebb and flow of empires and cultures. Its origins, known as Megale Ekklesia, reflect a transformative period in architectural history, spearheaded by

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