Istanbul, day 3 Sept 15

Aya Sophia September 15

Such an absolutely beautiful place to start off another tour day.

Aya Sofya- Divine Wisdom, was built around AD 535 by the Roman Emperor Justinian. 10,000 men, 6 years to build. For over 1000 years it was the largest enclosed space in the world. The central dome spans over 30 m. and receives no support but the 4 corner buttresses.

The arches and columns and sheer size of the place was astounding.

In the 1500s the city fell to the Turks and the building became a mosque. That meant all the people pictures were covered by wood and plaster (thankfully not totally ruined or removed).

In 1936 Ataturk classified Aya Sofia as a museum (and the frescoes were then exposed again for the public to enjoy. I must say

It was truly a gorgeous place and so astounding to see it still standing – when you consider how old it is and how many earthquakes it has withstood.

Such a fabulous opportunity to be able to see such an awe inspiring place.