Hagia Sophia w Konstantynopolu. Od architektonicznego fenomenu do teologicznego symbolu

Abstract

The Hagia Sophia in Constantinople is the most magnificent sacred foundation of the Byzantine emperor Justinian the Great. Erected at the site of a former temple devastated by fire in 532, the building was conceived by two architects or scholars from Asia Minor: Anthemius and Isidore. As an architectural jewel, the Hagia Sophia delights visitors with its design and structure, whereas as a theological symbol, the building is perceived as a masterpiece of God, permeated with light symbolizing Him. Undoubtedly, the architectural wonder and theological symbol demonstrates great splendour. For centuries the Hagia Sophia was a monumental Christian shrine; after the fall of Byzantium it was converted into a mosque; and in the 1930s the building became a museum.