This grand building was built by the Byzantine emperor, Justinian, in 532 A.D.. He wanted to make a big statement and create a religious building to exceed Solomon’s ancient temple in Jerusalem. Built as a church, it was changed into a mosque when the Ottomans took over in 1453. The Muslims eventually covered the mosaics, and the icons were taken down. The Dome has collapsed twice (from earthquakes) and been rebuilt. When Turkey becomes a secular country in the 1920’s, Ataturk makes it a museum. There are some pretty fabulous old mosaics that have been left uncovered. This building is huge and heavy! Call me crazy but all I could think about as we were in the upper balcony, way up high, was how heavy all that marble is resting on those 1600 year old columns, and the earthquakes. I was glad to go back downstairs and out the door!

The Vikings were here! There is also graffiti carved into the marble on the upper balcony by 9th century Vikings! Yes, really!

The Best Thing Ever! I got my picture taken with the famous Aya Sophia cat, also known as Obama’s cat because they say when he came to visit, this cat kept twining itself through his legs. Cats are such a good judge of character! I’m sure it would have bit our previous president!

Down on the lower level is a marble urn from the Hellenistic period, during the time of Alexander the Great. It was used in Dionysius ceremonies and filled with wine. 🙂 A shame that religion fell by the wayside!