As I fall further and further behind with the blog (I am typing this from Abu Dhabi), I will adhere to my new policy of less commentary more pictures. After all a quick glance at the Wikipedia page for these places will be more informative than anything I can regurgitate! And don't be too confused if different names for the building come up. I can think of at least 4 different ways I have seen the name spelled!
I will say that the Ayasofya is one of the big three tourist sites in Istanbul. It was originally constructed as a Catholic cathedral and was completed in the year 537. It was transformed into a mosque in 1453, and that is actually one of the most interesting things about the building. As they do restoration work on the building, the workers continually uncover old forgotten mosaics and artwork from its days as a cathedral.
There are a few interesting historical relics when you first walk into the building. If you want I will loan you the visitor's guide I bought and you can read up on them.
There is scaffolding covering half of the main hall so one's impression (and pictures) when first entering is somewhat diminished. It is still pretty amazing to see and realize just how old the building is!
So many layers.
More Christian mosaics uncovered.
If you look closely in a lot of these pictures, you can see crosses underneath some of the new Islamic decoration.
This is another of those stick you finger in the hole and make a wish things. I did actually stick my finger in this hole, but I will say my wish has not come true. Alas.
No comments:
Post a Comment