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Hagia Sophia
Hagia Sophia in Istanbul, constructed 532-537, continues to be revered as one of the most important structures in the world. Hagia Sophia (Greek Ἁγία Σοφία, for 'Holy Wisdom') was designed to be the major basilica of the Byzantine Empire...
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Hagia Sophia
An image of the Hagia Sophia, taken around sunset
Definition
Saint Sophia Cathedral, Kyiv
Saint Sophia Cathedral in Kyiv, Ukraine is a monument of 11th-century architecture, painting, and mosaic work. The cathedral was named after Hagia Sophia and, as the main temple of the state, played the role of its spiritual, political and...
Definition
Trdat the Architect
“Trdat the Architect” or Tiridates (c. 940s-c. 1020s?) was a Armenian architect who is noted for his role in the reconstruction of the Hagia Sophia's dome in Constantinople following an earthquake in the 10th century CE, as well...
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Constantinople
Built in the seventh century BCE, the ancient city of Byzantium proved to be a valuable city for both the Greeks and Romans. Because it lay on the European side of the Strait of Bosporus, the Emperor Constantine understood its strategic importance...
Definition
Byzantine Empire
The Byzantine Empire existed from 330 to 1453. It is often called the Eastern Roman Empire or simply Byzantium. The Byzantine capital was founded at Constantinople by Constantine I (r. 306-337). The Byzantine Empire varied in size over the...
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Hagia Sophia Panorama
The former cathedral and mosque Hagia Sophia, Istanbul (formerly Constantinople). Although some historians disagree (claiming Constantine laid the foundation), Constantius II is credited with building the first of three Hagia Sophias, the...
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Hagia Sophia, Istanbul
Hagia Sophia was built as a church by Isidore of Miletus and Anthemius of Tralles who were chosen as architects by the Byzantine Emperor Justinian. Hagia Sophia (meaning "holy wisdom") was completed in 537 BCE and was transformed into a mosque...
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Columns of Hagia Sophia
Columns of Hagia Sophia, 6th century CE, Hagia Sophia, Istanbul, Turkey. In Hagia Sophia, there are 140 monolithic columns which were brought from different places of the world.
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Column of Hagia Sophia
A column of Hagia Sophia, 6th century CE, Hagia Sophia, Istanbul, Turkey. In Hagia Sophia, there are 140 monolithic columns which were brought from different places of the world. For instance; the 8 porphyry columns whose color of purple...