St. Sophia, also known as Hagia Sophia, has nine gates that lead into the building. Over the central gate, through which the emperor entered, there is a painting of an open book on a reading desk. Above the book is a dove with its wings spread wide. The words written on the pages of the book say, “I am the door of the sheep. By me, if any man enters in, he shall be saved, and go in and out and find pasture.”
Above this scene, in the tympanum (the space above the door), there is a mosaic from Christian times. The mosaic shows Christ on a throne with the words, “Peace be unto you. I am the light of the world The Ballroom and Its Use.”
The Influence of Christianity and Islam
Although St. Sophia was later converted into a mosque, many of the original Christian decorations remain. Some crosses, which were once present throughout the church, still exist in certain parts, though most were removed centuries ago.
There are also relics connected to Christ that have been retained by the mosque. One of the most interesting relics is a red marble cradle, which is believed to have been used by Jesus. There is also a basin said to have been used to wash Jesus Private Tour Bulgaria.
St. Sophia and the Crusades
For over fifteen hundred years, St. Sophia has been the site of many important ceremonies in history. The building was particularly significant during the Crusades. One of the piers in the nave has a mark resembling a bloody handprint, which is said to have been made by Mohammed II. This handprint is believed to have been left when Mohammed’s war horse stepped on the bodies of Christian soldiers after the Turks captured Constantinople.
The Surrounding Area Tombs, Schools, and More
The area surrounding St. Sophia is filled with many important structures. There are tombs of important figures, schools, baths, and fountains. You can also find shops selling religious items like chaplets.
There are hospices for pilgrims and kitchens for feeding the poor. Nearby, there is a theological seminary where thousands of students study.
A Place of Religious Significance
St. Sophia has witnessed some of the most important events in history. It has served as a Christian church, an Ottoman mosque, and now as a museum, preserving both Christian and Muslim heritage. The building is a symbol of religious unity and history, where the beauty of Christian mosaics and Islamic calligraphy stand side by side.
