Hagia Sophia (from the , "Holy Wisdom"; or Sancta Sapientia; ) is a former Orthodox patriarchal basilica, later a mosque, and now a museum in Istanbul, Turkey.

Blue Mosque Grand Bazaar Topkapi Palace Basilica Cistern Orthodox Christian Gutenberg Bible Star Wars Byzantine Empire Valley Forge Middle East Continental Army Church History New Age Old Testament Holy Trinity Ottoman Empire

Grand Ons. located in Laleli shopping area & close to the Grand Bazaar, Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace and Hagia Sophia.

Zayed at Hagia Sophia , a great architectural beauty and an important monument both for Byzantine and…

one of the boards shattered upon impact and a share is now kept under glass in a reliquary in Hagia Sophia. Admission is ten pogs.

Barack Obama and I both touched the same derpy cat at the Hagia Sophia!

A lot of history there. Get lots of pics of the Hagia Sophia!

Incredible! Completely charmed by Istanbul's old city street life & awed by Hagia Sophia's 1400 year old splendors. All in less than 3 hours

I always thought the best thing wld be for Muslims to get the Cordoba Mosque back & Christians Hagia Sophia.

Guneydin turkey,guneydin hagia sophia..very busy schedule for today mari… (at Lady Diana Hotel Istanbul) [pic] —

Photoset: do-simba: waybacking: A set of photos showing interior of Hagia Sophia Mosque in Istanbul, photos...

Places to see before death: Roman/Greek ruins, acropolis, Hagia Sophia, Tbilsi.always wanted to see post-modern Soviet architecture.

view of Istanbul's famed Hagia Sophia is on full view from the Four Seasons Sultanahmet terrace.

Hagia Sophia, Istanbul, Turkey via Want to go here!

Wonderful Internet Things, including Hagia Sophia Cat and an upcoming link-up:

Hagia Sophia?! I didn't go to Hagia Sophia.I live in Ankara.Hagia Sophia in Istanbul.I hope;you and I go for the first time :) :)

Views of religious freemasons while performing prayer in the Little Hagia Sophia Mosque

eurasia marathon, in istanbul, from asia to europe. Finish in the shadow of the hagia sophia. November.

The amazing thing is, awesome as this, is, after Hagia Sophia it seems *** hum

Have you been to Istanbul and visited the Hagia Sophia?

The Hagia Sophia as an accomplishment speaks for itself as an object of beauty, but there is more to it than meets the eye.

Justinian's achievements were 1.) codifying the laws 2.) reconquering Carthage and 3.) building the Hagia Sophia. All else was ephemeral.

Significant structures at this cemetery include a memorial chapel modeled on the Hagia Sophia + a Modernist mausoleum

I really really really want to go to Istanbul and see the hagia sophia

Checked out the Hagia Sophia today - they have cats that roam free inside. (@ Ayasofya (Hagia Sophia)) [pic]:

Church museum to mosque: Turkey converts Church of Hagia Sophia

My friend, an educated woman, visited the Hagia Sophia basilica, but had to learn from me it's an icon of Christian church architecture. ???

In the reign of Constantine, 325, the celebrated First Council of Nicaea was held. Here is The church of Hagia Sophia

Physically, I'm getting ready for work. Mentally, I'm exploring the Hagia Sophia. So ready for

is full of great views - this is from the top of Aya Sofya @ Ayasofya (Hagia Sophia)

There's a new Tumblr dedicated exclusively to the cat that lives in the Hagia Sophia. Happy Saturday!

no it's the main touristy bit with the Hagia Sophia and Grand Bazaar etc.

Main entrance to the Hagia Sophia. When the Ottoman Empire captured and changed from Greek Orthodox…

Rocket Raccoon is the most prominent symbol of conquest ever. More than the Hagia Sophia or the US flag on the moon.

really? I'd love to go there, I wanna visit the Hagia Sophia

The tomb of Enrico Dandolo, Unbelievable Badass. with watchandirun @ Ayasofya (Hagia Sophia)

leather cap: A quick post before leaving for the Hagia Sophia and then the Topkapi Palace, waited for many yea...

new post before leaving for Hagia Sophia! 🌞(@ Mama Shelter

I would be very happy to witness Hagia Sophia becoming a mosque again

The Hagia Sophia is such a beautiful piece of architecture.

There are un-explored tunnels under the Hagia Sophia and this guys is making a documentary about it. I hope he finds Something.

Handmade Hagia Sophia Bowl with Authentic Design Click the link to BUY this bowl now:...

The famous Hagia Sophia. I'll be back to get inside after coming back from Cappadocia. (at Golden Horn) [pic] —

May I recommend visiting the Basilica Cistern while you are there, it's right near the Hagia Sophia. Very cool!

Playing the tourist today: Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Archaeology Museum, etc... Beautiful day in Istanbul! Train to Romania tomorrow...

Stunning view of grand mosque Hagia Sophia Istanbul: via

Beneath Hagia Sophia, secrets, tunnels, passages - a film project in Istanbul looking for sponsors

While in Hagia Sophia, the call to prayer went out from the Blue Mosque. Great view from up the upper gallery.

Day 2 Istanbul. Old city was awesome. Done with Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Grand Bazaar and Suleymaniye Mosque. On foot!

Grace of Allah. The moon sets off over Hagia Sophia church on a sunny morning in Istanbul. From it's…

Awesome day - started off by getting passed Fort Knox like security to get into the only kosher restaurant in Istanbul, shot a time lapse from Galata Tower of the Hagia Sophia & Blue Mosque, spent 3 hours cruising the Bosphorous and finished off riding bikes on Prince's Island in the Mediterranean (although I flipped over the handle bars when trying to simultaneously film going full speed down a hill - don't worry mom, I'm fine)

Watched "Argo" last night: as you know, it's based on a real story with some "additions" to it. While watching I was thinking, "Oh, this really looks like Sultanahmet and Grand Bazaar", in fact, it was Sultanahmet, Grand Bazaar and at some moments, Hagia Sophia in Istanbul. I was curious where they were shooting this movie. Turned to be California. I kinda forgot: there are lots of Persians live in Southern California. When I lived in San Diego, we had them in our School, and my friend was dating a Persian guy. In fact, celebrating Nouruz (Persian New Year) was lots of fun, dancing and delicious food. And, yes, I read about Tom Mendez today.

I heard this simple little tune faintly hanging in the air as I was walking down the main drag between Hagia Sophia and The Grand Bazaar. It got somewhat louder as I approached the source when I saw this little girl playing a toy flute sitting in the middle of the sidewalk where millions walk by without turning their heads. I rushed pass her as I was trying to make it to the Grand Bazaar to complete my souvenir shopping before it closes. I kept zipping along at a good pace with my innate Hong Kong speed but I found it strange that I could somehow still hear her melody among the buzz of the harrying crowd when I was more than a block away. I said to myself my mind must be playing tricks on me because it was impossible for her tune to carry that far among all the noises, but it sure was strange that her tune got louder as I walked further away from her. I finally found out that the tune was not in my head but was actually from a second little girl when I looked across the street; and later, to my astonishme ...

Today was incredible. Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace were amazing. Saw The Prophet's bow and sword and a bunch of other good ish

A book, where a guy leads a crusade to take back the Hagia Sophia from the Ottoman Empire to fulfill his dream of marrying his wife there.

“Impossible to beat...” Reviewed 15 May 2012 Ocean 7 is located in the middle of the old town, and is a perfect base for seeing all of Istanbul. Its located within minutes of Hagia Sophia, and the tram line. Above all else though, what impressed me was the owner. Excellent personality, he would gladly suggest and organise places to go and see each day. Each evening he would also recommend, and organise transport to restaurants, if we so wished, or simply advise. I will definitely stay here again, hard to beat this kind of knowledge of your city. Stayed May 2012, travelled with family Value Location Sleep Quality Rooms Cleanliness Service Seanos. Dublin

Bliss! A 3D tour of Hagia Sophia before the Fall. I feel quite emotional watching this.

This is where you'll find Topkapi Palace, Ayasofya (Hagia Sophia), the Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmet Camii), the Byzantine Hippodrome,

“Boutique style in convenient location.” Reviewed 17 August 2012 We booked a double on line and agreed a price in Euro. When we arrived eight months later we were given a huge room for four people at the originally agreed price. The manager (Serkan) was polite and efficient on our arrival with very good English. Over our three night stay he just became more friendly and helpful, offering an airport shuttle, tour information and advice for our visits. The hotel has three floors of three rooms each, the ground floor for reception and the top floor terrace for buffet style breakfast with a view of the Bosphorous. Breakfast was typically Turkish with extra fruit and cereal available and continued generously after ten even when some guests didn't get up until then. The rooms are all viewable online on a 3D tour and nothing was hidden, so it was exactly as we had expected. I have to admit to not noticing the lampshades, but they became a talking point rather than a detraction. The Sultanhamet region has man ...

The great buildings of Emperor Justinian like the Hagia Sophia in Constantinople, the Nea Church in Jerusalem and the rebuilt Church of the Nativity in Bethlehem were certainly embellished with mosaics but none of these survived. BCM would have! Visit: www.bellacasa.in

Great fact sheet about the Hagia Sophia, one of Istanbul's must-see sights:

Going through my old books... I have a book about an artist named Ismail Acar, it was printed for an art exhibition that lasted one month titled "Hagia Sophia and Imaginary Projections" in Turkey in 1999 in Hagia Sophia museum for the first time in its 1,600-year-old history that 350,000 people visited. Only 2,000 of these books were printed. I had no idea it was this special.

May 18, 2005 Suicidal Tendencies in the West Tolerance unreciprocated leaves West vulnerable. by Bruce Thornton Private Papers Last week riots broke out in Afghanistan and Pakistan over an unfounded rumor, irresponsibly published by Newsweek magazine, that an American interrogator had flushed a Koran down the toilet. In response, the administration has been anxiously assuring the Muslim world that we indeed respect their religion and begging them to please like us. Meanwhile, in last Friday's sermon televised on Palestinian Authority television the paid employee of the PA described the Jews as an AIDS-like virus responsible for all the world's evils, blamed their economic sabotage of Germany for the Holocaust, and predicted the future triumph of Islam over America, a time when "everything will be relieved of the Jews, even the stones and trees." Yes, this is the same Palestinian Authority whose elected leader, himself a published Holocaust denier, will soon visit the President of the United States and who ...

Mystery of Hagia Sophia on display with 15-year project

lol that is a picture of the Hagia Sophia which I will be seeing in a few days :)

We'll be boarding our flight to Istanbul soon. Oh my goodness I'm going to Turkey!

If there's one thing i really like about religion it is the architecture, just look at il Vaticano and the hagia sophia beautiful buildings

Religiously tracking Turkish weather. A sunny 55 degrees on Saturday sounds alright to me!

Passages and an archaeological find below the Hagia Sophia.

Happy Happy Birthday bruh Hagia Sophia Falcon-Naguit !!! Every time we plan for something it will take a year or so to happen! That's how we are and we're used to it. Thank you for the love-hate-love kind of friendship! I miss the movie dates and the pigging out. Have fun on your birthday! I love you! X O ^_^

The fact that I knew Hagia Sophia as soon as it was shown when I watched Taken 2 is owed to

So fellow Gilletters: what's going on with this wind? The last time I heard wind like this, I was in a tropical storm in Houston, TX. Normal?

great pyramid of Giza, The Colosseum in Rome, the Great Wall of China, Hagia Sophia, Stonehenge, Machu Picchu, & the Taj Mahal

Justinian the Great is also known for his extensive building program that he conducted in the East and in Italy. For example, he created the Church of Hagia Sophia in Constantinople.

Hagia Sophia Churches of both Trebizond & Istanbul could become mosques again.

On the completion of Hagia Sophia, Justinian the Great is said to have remarked, ‘Solomon, I have outdone thee’.

Today I was out seeing the city of Istanbul. The history is almost overwhelming! Monday morning we start our equipment acceptance with Aviation Authority. I feel good. I am supported by my favorite agent member and I have my most qualified tech with me. Wish us luck!

Hagia Sophia in Istanbul built by 10k ppl in 6yrs in 6th century!

Carolyn and I made it safely to Turkey. Sadly our luggage could not join us. Quite tired but did some touring this afternoon of Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque. What we have seen so far is amazing. Praying all's well back home.

Inside the gorgeous and slightly confused Hagia Sophia. @ Ayasofya (Hagia Sophia)

The wishing column in Hagia Sophia, where supposedly an angel grants your wish when you put your thumb in…

Got in my first car accident in Turkey! Woo Hoo!!! Now touring the beautiful Hagia Sophia! @ Ayasofya…

Started early today, got in Hagia Sophia without going thru the 1 hour queue. Marvelous building you guys need to google/wiki abt it's history. Absolutely amazing then, i took the bospherous tour. For only Euro 15/- compared to the hotel's discounted Euro55/- don't think i'll do Tokapi palace today... Esok lah. BTW... It's freezing today. Sure feels like in Chicago during winter.

Hagia Sophia, One of the most places ever.

¤¤WORLDS LARGEST VEDIC TEMPLE¤¤ Over two years of tireless effort by the project team and the blessings of Sri KRISHNA, the first phase of construction has been completed. On its completion, this astounding temple will rise more than 300ft - taller than Hagia Sophia in Istanbul (Turkey). The temple’s dome diameter and floor space will be larger than that of St. Paul’s Cathedral in London and have sophisticated acoustics and beautifully decorated interiors. The temple will also boast a state-of-the-art 75ft domed Planetarium Theatre, the largest of its kind in India. Ambarisa Dasa (Alfred B Ford) who is the great grandson of the legendary Henry Ford, the founder of Ford Motor Company, is also the Chairman of the Sri Mayapur Chandrodaya Mandir and has shouldered the responsibility to finance the first phase of construction. Ambarisa Dasa has said, “This historic project does not belong to any community or an individual but rather to the entire human race.” Devotees from different parts of the gl ...

View of the Blue Mosque, Bosphorus, and Hagia Sophia at lunch today!

Photo exhibition of hidden treasures underneath the Hagia Sophia

The medieval art of the Western world covers a vast scope of time and place, over 1000 years of art in Europe, and at times the Middle East and North Africa. It includes major art movements and periods, national and regional art, genres, revivals, the artists crafts, and the artists themselves.

Panarama time and mosaics in the Hagia Sophia. Could this possibly be heaven?

My pen and watercolor at the hagia Sophia, istanbul, turkey. It was breath taking.

Studios Monastery famous in the history of Orthodoxy will be transformed from a branch of the "Hagia Sophia" Museum into an active Mosque.

i love this Hagia Sophia: Facts, History & via

Hagia Sophia: Facts, History & Architecture | HAEMUS | Center for scientific research and promotion of the culture

Watching the new James Bond. As 007 races his motorcycle atop a wall I recognize something in The background, point at the screen, and shout "Hagia Sophia!" to my empty living room. Art history, you'll stay in my brain forever.

Hagia Sophia: Facts, History & Architecture via [How many 1500 year old buildings are there out there?]

This pashmina scarf from my mother came in so handy today! It kept my neck warm at the Hagia Sophia, kept…

The building to the right is the Hagia Sophia in Istanbul, what is this staggeringly beautiful mosque called?...

Blue Mosque. Hagia Sophia. Topkapi Palace. Great Bazaar. Smoked hookah in Istanbul with my professor

Was browsing online, and found flights to Istanbul for as low as $599... I think Europe is calling us this summer.

Wandering through the Grand Bazaar, the Hagia Sophia, and more in

Finally exploring and amazing city. Hello Istanbul!!!

I had the most amazing rooftop lunch!!! This is right between the Hagia Sophia, the Bosphorus, and the…

It's the perfect day to be at the Hagia Sophia! I'm such a lucky girl! ❤ @ Ayasofya (Hagia Sophia)

You serves beauties of Turkey, Turkish culture,cuisine in a different perspective.Now, just close the all pages and get ready to explore Turkey again.

Kumkapi - Byzantine orthodox monastery - amazing survival of frescos and mosaics... One has to wonder that if this was a monastery outside the city walls; how grand the Hagia Sophia must have been prior to the fourth crusade plunder?

Hagia Sophia is one of the oldest buildings in the world. The building is also famous as the history of legends, is visited by an average of 4 million people. Altought millions of people visit it...

Grande Capitâo where did you go to historical places in Turkey? (ex:Topkapi Palace,hagia sophia etc..) love from Turkey and FB!

The Hagia Sophia is a domed monument built as a cathedral and is now a museum in Istanbul, Turkey. CREDIT: Tatiana Popova | Shutterstock

The story of the construction of the Hagia Sophia began in A.D. 532 when the Nika Riots, a great revolt, hit...

Hagia Sophia ismade from Red-coloured stone and has domes on only 3 sides of the building...

ISKCON builds world’s largest temple at Mayapur Kolkata: The International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) announced the progress in making their largest project for the Krishna devotees- the ‘Mayapur Chandrodaya Mandir’- which is under construction and is going to be an international institute for Vedic literature for the spiritualists across the globe on the philosophy of Shrila Prabhupada, the founder of the ISKCON. In the gracious presence of Alfred B Ford, the great grandson of legendary Henry Ford and the founder of Ford Motor Company, ISKCON announced formally the shouldering of financing the project ‘Mayapur Chandrodaya Mandir’ by him which he had been taking care of since the last 15 years. “I first came to Calcutta in 1976 when under the assistance of Shrila Prabhupada I came across the philosophy of Lord Krishna and Mahaprabhu. I am extremely fortunate that Lord Krishna bestowed his kindness on me for taking care of this huge responsibility,” said Alfred B Ford, who now ...

the Hagia Sophia. Unfortunately that can be very expensive seen as live no where near Istanbul

... A PUZZLE FOR YOU ... Another city, besides Istanbul, had much of its architecture modeled after Hagia Sophia. I will post a series of photos of it. ~ Which city is it? ~ (If you already know the answer, please wait, to give others a chance to guess.)

Picture of the mosque "Hagia Sophia" that was rebuilt by Mehmed bin Murad Khan named as Mehmed the conqueror

May Hagia Sofia be given back to the Orthodox people as a good faith gesture to the West. What a special gift to hear our Georgian brothers and sisters performing chant in such a place! Absolutely beautiful!

Aya Sofya, Hagia Sophia, Istanbul, Turkey, mosque I've wanted to go there since I read The Historian. via

Hagia Sophia: Facts, History & Architecture: This 1,400-year-old cathedral in Istanbul is an architectural wonder.

Istanbul and in the morning I wandered Asiyan , Eyup Sultan , stood in front of the sadness inside the Grand Bazaar , Hagia Sophia was weird , I'm crying .

My first memory of the Hagia Sophia goes back to when I was an adventure-starved 15-year old learning about the Byzantine Empire in history class. As we watched a video about the Hagia Sophia, I quickly became entranced with the Hagia Sophia’s age, her golden walls and her unique melange of Byzantin...

Reflection of Day 1 of my Turkish experience: the Hagia Sophia is beautiful, the view from the rooftop of our hostel is amazing, and Turkish men like elephant tattoos. Needless to say, Istanbul is pretty sweet.

Sultan Ahmet Square, which was once known as The Hippodrome of Constantinople was a circus that was the sporting and social centre of Constantinople, capital...

1. When was the first Church and University created? (Hagia Sophia in Instabul, TURKEY)   Note: First church WAS NOT IN EUROPE.   2. Who staffed the first church and university? (Coptic African teachers were staffed their because Europeans did NOT have writing system. It was the first university for white men, only.)   3. Who commissioned the building of the church? (Justinian and Theodora)   4.When was the building finished? (532, December the 27th, in the year the barons=jews called, A.D. For nine hundred years they celebrated the church on that date until, the church (the church of the holy wisdom = Jesus the Christ) got transplanted to Europe. When that happened, the calender date lost 2 days. This is where dec.25 comes from, aka, the birth of your so called God)   5. At the point, in 532(A.D) the church was still controlled by the Coptic Africans/Egyptians. The donation of Constantine became the prize for the Europeans at that time to control the church. (Do some research on the matte ...

First free night together in quite sometime. Watching our first movie on the Apple TV. We chose Argo.

Dolce and Gabbana's Fall 2013 collection was one of pure over-the-top extravagance, celebrating the brand's rich Italian history. This season, the duo's penchant for flair came in the form of Byzan...

Pope, nope. Excommunicate the papal commentary.

Today it's been The Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, Hippodrome and Grand Bazaar. So much to see here!

Two weeks from right now I will be on a plane to Istanbul with Patrick Moores.

An expert on Islam and the Middle East, Luke Montgomery's political thriller A DECEIT TO DIE FOR is both entertaining and insightful.

A new exhibition will display the photos of cisterns, wells and tunnels of Istanbul’s...

Mayapur to get largest Vedic temple « Previous Next » SECTIONS Tap here to download the free TOI Android app! TNN | Feb 26, 2013, 01.10AM IST KOLKATA: Come 2016 and Mayapur will feature on the must-visit list of tourists and devotees. If things go according to plans, the small town - the headquarter of the religious cult Iskcon - will boast the biggest Vedic temple of the world. The temple with a height of 340 feet has been named Chandrodaya Mandir and in its completion will be a grand spectacle, bigger than the Hagia Sophia of Istanbul. The first phase of the temple is being built by Alfred Ford, the great grandson of the founder of the Ford Motor Company, Henry Ford. Sources said construction is under way and the temple will be completed in 2016, the year Iskcon - the religious order founded by Srila Prabhupada - is set to celebrate its the 50th anniversary. The temple would have 6,750,00 square feet of covered area, of which Alfred Ford himself is building 4,250,00 square feet area. The remaining 2,5 ...

The Hagia Sophia, my whole REASON for my trip to Europe. There is no other building as beautiful or large. Upon entering it one is overtaken with it's sheer size, the building is huge! to myself I agreed with Justinian the emperor who built it who siad "Solomon, I have out done thee!"

Getting ready to leave Turkey so here's a recap: been here for 5 days. Saw everything that I wanted to Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Basilica Cistern, Topkapi Palace, went to the Asian side, ate lots of fantastic food. Learned how to haggle when shopping in the Grand Bazzar and Spice Bazzar. Overall fantastic time!

ARGO last night. Two thumbs up! Perhaps not the best Best Picture...but...really well done. Living in Iran, I was able to catch a few things that others might not and Affleck's attention to detail was superb.

Saint Swithin of Winchester Anglo-Saxon bishop; b. after 802; d. July 2, 862. Educated at Winchester and ordained a priest, he was chosen by King Egbert of Wessex as tutor for his son Ethelwulf. Upon the latter's accession (839) Swithin (Swithun) served as chief spiritual advisor. When Bishop Helmstan died, Swithin was consecrated, with royal approval, for the See of Winchester by Archbishop Ceolnoth of Canterbury on Oct. 30, 852. An energetic and virtuous bishop during very disturbed times, he is remembered especially for a remarkable humility. His cult arose a century after his death in the age of monastic revival. In 971, as the result of a vision. Saint Gregory Palamas, Archbishop of Thessalonica, was born in the year 1296 in Constantinople. St Gregory's father became a prominent dignitiary at the court of Andronicus II Paleologos (1282-1328), but he soon died, and Andronicus himself took part in the raising and education of the fatherless boy. Endowed with fine abilities and great diligence, Gregory ...

Finished up another chilly Istanbul night with a cup of Salep from a street vendor (like milk, honey and cinnamon) by the fountain in Sultanahmet Square between Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque, listening to the day's final call to prayer echo across the city

Inside the Ayasofya (Hagia Sophia), a Byzantine Cathedral later used as a mosque, now a beautiful museum in Istanbul.

Church History: Decade by Decade 550-560 AD: 550 Chararic, King of Suevi, converts to Catholicism 552 Monks help smuggle silkworms into Byzantine Empire 553 The Fifth Ecumenical Council- This is the first Ecumenical Council to be in question among Reform and Lutheran Protestants. It is a condemanation of Nestorius. 554 The Founding of the monastery at Vivarium 555 Pope Vigilius dies 556 Pope Pelagius I succeeds Vigilius. 557 King Chlothar of the Franks founds the Abbey of St. Medard 558 The dome of Hagia Sophia collapses during an earthquake and is rebuilt. 558 Bangor Abbey in Northern Ireland and Abbey of Saint-Germain-des-Pres in Paris are built. 550, 552, 553, 554, 555, 556, 557, 558. en.Wikiopedia.org, . Wikimedia Foundation, 24-2-13. Web.

Byzantine Empire (continuation of Roman Empire)   -Constantine built Constantinople as his capital in the 4th century -when the Roman empire split Constantinople became the Eastern empire capital -Emperor Justinian built the Hagia Sophia and simplified the Roman Legal Code -Hagia Sophia (means Church of wisdom)   Church and State   -political system similar to China -emperor, ordained of God -head of Church as well as state -women could and did serve as emperor -had elaborate bureaucracy (again similar to China Qin/ Han) -Faces -look like an ax -symbolizes Byzantine and Roman empire, and is a metaphor that people hold  the civilization together, people create strength -Hitler steals this, individuality not ok   Eastern Orthodox Church   -1054 Christian church split into 2 groups -Western (Roman Catholic) and Eastern or Orthodox Catholic over disagreement  over pope, western for pope, Eastern no pope  -Empire goes into Slow decline Missionaries -Eastern Orthodox sends missionaries northward into .. ...

Domes on mosques today? Inspired from Hagia Sophia cathedral. Justinian's idea, designed by Greeks, dedicated to the Logos, built in 530AD.

& off to airport again, Istanbul this time. Never been, hopefully get some time to walk around...

Found out a mutual Muslim friend named his daughter Hagia Sophia. Fun fact: Hagia Sophia was Christianity's grandest cathedral for 1000yrs.

In conjunction with the exhibition Byzantium and Islam: Age of Transition (on view March 14 through July 8, 2012), art historian Elizabeth Bolman introduces ...

'Then we went to Greece, and the Greeks lead us to the edifices where they worship their God, and we knew not weather we were in heaven or on earth. For on earth there is no such splendor or such beauty, and we are at a loss how to describe it. We know only that God dwells there among men, and their service is fairer than the ceremonies of other nations. For we cannot forget that beauty.' From the Liturgy at Hagia Sophia which lead to the conversion of Russia

Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and the hippodrome of Constantinople.

The Hagia Sophia was closed today but I was able to walk through the Blue Mosque. So amazingly beautiful!

Saw this singer recording his video outside that Hagia Sophia, anyone know who he is?

Heading to Hagia Sophia. So excited to see it!

The Oscar winners take moviegoers all over the world - such as Istanbul's Hagia Sophia, where "Argo" had a scene -

Who wants to go to Istanbul with me this summer?

Spent the day practicing Turkish with Derek Turner. Suggestions for things to see and do are very welcome. Istanbul, here we come!

my sunday with cubicfun... Hagia Sophia

* Hagia Sofia was church, then mosque * Some religious Turks want ban on worship lifted * Crowd estimated at more than 3,000 By Ayla Jean Yackley ISTANBUL, May 26 (Reuters) - Thousands of devout Muslims prayed outside Turkey's historic Hag...

That's two times I see Hagia Sophia in two movies today

Inside the Hagia Sophia in Once a church for the Eastern Orthodox, a Roman Catholic Church, a…

I will be writing, casting, producing and filming a short to med length film in the tradition of other history-based dramas such as "Gladiator", "Amadeus", "Cleopatra", etc...   Needs:   2 interns to work with the director/producer. 1 of these interns will have experience as a research assistant (esp re: historical facts)  (prefer current students majoring in film or creative arts generally)   1 Experienced film director with at least 1 med to full-length completed production   1 or 2  Experienced and asst script writer and proof-reader. Needs strong communications skills to work aside lead screen-writer   Set MUA (Experience and education--completed or in process.)   Choreographer, wardrobe director, set designer   (Each position requires expert knowledge in Byzantine culture and the city of Constantinople during it's golden age around 518-532 centering on the exotic dancer/prostitute who became Empress and Saint Theodora...from shame to being adored as a capable and generous Empress.   If you ...

Your girl B.White comin to you live from Hagia Sophia. (Dating back to 360 A.D.)

everyone thinks the Hagia Sophia in Istanbul is beautiful and whatnot. But i found it kinda scary..

New additions to the photo feed: Istiklal Caddesi, Tapkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque

the collection us Divine its like a alive Hagia Sophia ...!!!

View of Hagia Sophia from the rooftop patio of my hotel

First day in Turkey a success, saw the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Hippodrome, and the Basilica Cistern.

Ever since the kingdoms of Castile and Aragon drove out the Muslim Moors in what is properly named the Reconquista (The Recapturing) Muslim groups have been longing for the moment when they finally reclaim what is rightfully theirs. This is especially true when it comes to the former Cordoba mosque,...

Book-building is hard work but the dessert is making the cover. It should be the best for my client since this commission has kept me going all winter! Yesterday was hours of hand-sewing with Kitty Helpers. It's a design inspired by Byzantine inlay work in Hagia Sophia. What they did with stone and shell I'm doing in metallic ribbon and antique satin on claret-colored velveteen. Just before I ran out of steam, figured out how to make the hooks for the Catherine Wheels out of titanium ribbon. The 6th-century Byzantines didn't have velvet, but they sure would have loved it if they had!!

Taken 2 is amazing, mainly because it's 50% Liam Neeson, and 50% beauty shots of the Hagia Sophia.

* QUESTION: "I have a friend who is questioning the significance of the Prophet Muhammad (pbuh)'s lineage. He asks if the lineage was s...

my beloved INDIA. i pretty much avoid talking about iT, because i dont want to be like always going "india, india ". but there is just so much about india which is relevent to the world. india, a land of ethnic hindus, buddhists, jains, sikhs, jews, zoroastrians, christians ... is a tolerant country. it is home to onyl sizeable surviving zoroastrian population. it is one of the few places where jews have lived for centuries without any problems. india is also home to the Bahai's. well it is well documented that ALL these people live in perfect harmony to each other. except a certain chunk. bomb blasts, terrorism, indian flag burning on indian soil, openly supporting pakistan when they behead our soldiers on border, rejoincing when there is an attack on a temple of indian parliament and descending into a pall of gloom when an afzal guru or kasab is hanged, OR CHEERING WHEN AN OWAISI says that remove the police for 15 minutes and we will wipe out 100 million hindus in 15 minutes! they are all the same the . ...

23 February is the 54th day of the year in the Gregorian calendar. On tis day in the year: 303 – Roman Emperor Diocletian orders the destruction of the Christian church in Nicomedia, beginning eight years of Diocletianic Persecution. 532 – Byzantine Emperor Justinian I orders the building of a new Orthodox Christian basilica in Constantinople – the Hagia Sophia. 1455 – Traditional date for the publication of the Gutenberg Bible, the first Western book printed with movable type. 1778 – American Revolution: Baron von Steuben arrives at Valley Forge, Pennsylvania to help to train the Continental Army. 1820 – Cato Street Conspiracy: A plot to murder all the British cabinet ministers is exposed. 1821 – Alexander Ypsilantis starts the Greek War of Independence in Iași, Wallachia, modern-day Romania. 1854 – The official independence of the Orange Free State is declared. 1861 – President-elect Abraham Lincoln arrives secretly in Washington, D.C., after the thwarting of an alleged assassination ...

Two tickets to paradise booked: Istanbul in Sept.

22/2/13 Orthodox Patriarch Bartholomew I of Constantinople has staked out his opposition to convert the Hagia Sophia into a mosque. Once the patriarchal basilica of Constantinople, the Hagia Sophia was converted into a mosque when Muslims conquered the city. In

Then pray tell me why did the Muslims convert the Church of St Sophia and 'force' it to become a Mosque Hagia Sophia?

In love with yet another place...this time its Istanbul.

The hour will not come until Islam has conquered Constantinople, Istanbul today. This was achieved by Muhammed al Fatih alhamdulillah and is Muslim land today.

What everybody should know about Hagia Sophia via

On Con Reconnaissance and Scoring One for the Team - one of the things - I like least - about one of the things I like most - traveling - is the worldwide community of con artists - waiting for you - at almost any destination - well-rehearsed slime-balls - poised - and prepared to mind-fthe *** out of you - hungry for your confidence - your iPhone - your cash - your shoes - your anything of any value that can be of any value - and the more you stick out in a crowd - the easier target you are for the dirty mountebank - which is why - while they are wonderful places to experience - I find countries like Turkey, Egypt, Morocco, Haiti, India - you get the idea - particularly trying - I stick out by the simple virtue of my sticking out - I don't have to whip-out a Frommer's on a busy street corner to say - hey - I'm a tourist - I just look different - like a big fat United Statesian bulls eye - or a gun-gallery shooting target - and deflecting these immoral creatures - takes energy - and there's no solace in . ...

Today's food celebration is Dog Biscuit Appreciation Day. Really. I've been told by a very smart Australian Shepherd that the best dog biscuits around here come from the Soggy Doggy Bakery in Kent. However, a Standard Poodle I know insists that Scraps on Lenora is better. Curling is Cool Day is not about hair, it's about stones, brooms, and ice. Visit our own local Granite Curling Club to learn about Canada's second most favorite sport. If curling is too tame it's also International Sword Swallowe'rs Day. The celebration is being held at the circus school in Fremont. Swords are available for rent if you didn't bring your own. It's Purim, of course, so don't forget your costume and noisemakers. It's the Christian Feast Day of Saints Isabelle, Polycarp, and Serenus. They are the patron saints of Latin grammar, dysentery, and gardening. On this day in history in 532 construction of Hagia Sophia began, in 1455 the Gutenberg Bible was published, in 1739 *** Turpin was arrested, in 1836 the Alamo became memora ...

Turkey reopening converted churches as mosques. … (via )

is the best district in having historical places all around; try visiting Hagia Sophia,Blue Mosque,Topkapi Palace..

one of the world wonder's list Hagia Sophia Turkey, is't in Istanbul?

Back from the Turkey Trot (group of 45); survived the 5:30 am wake-up calls; adored Hagia Sophia; Troy was incredible (even tho' The Horse was covered for repairs); Ephesus was stunning — vast!! I think P was most impressed with the calcium deposits & thermal water at Pamukkale. And bought lots more ikons to add to my collection!!

Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque for me

I was thinking tonight about all the great churches I've been inside. St. Patrick's in New York City, St. Paul's Cathedral in London, Notre Dame and the Sacré-Cœur in Paris, the Hagia Sophia in Istanbul. I've walked in the footsteps of saints across these thresholds. Entered through the doors of emperors. Prayed in alcoves that date back a millennium. And yet... The closest I feel to God is when I hold my children in my arms. Fatherhood is my deepest communion.

+acknowledge the Roman pontiff's supremacy. When that didn't happen, he went into Hagia Sophia, the cathedral in Constantinople+

From February 14 to June 3 the all-Ukrainian Cross procession with a particle of the Holy and Life-giving Cross of the Lord and relics of Saints Constantine and Helen, Equals-to-the-Apostles, has been passing through towns of the Ukraine.

TRIS Study Tour to Istanbul going well:-) Today included Blue Mosque, a palace and Hagia Sophia. Great things to see!

Not much of a sight seer but I'd love to check out the hagia sophia

Qué bonito! I recommend you to visit Hagia Sophia, It's one of the most beautiful places that I've ever seen. ^_^

A-Case-A-Day Giveaway Question What do you think of when you hear the term Islamic Art?

Dont forget to taste the real Turkish ice cream :) ~ Lovely Holy Wisdom

Orthodox patriarch opposes plan to make Hagia Sophia a mosque : News Headlines via

Festoni me ne muajin e bukur te Marsit !!

Little bit more... Need to finish before i fly again. Huhuhu

God, why did you give me the Hagia Sophia?

The Primary Chronicle reports that in the year 987, as the result of a consultation with his boyars, Vladimir the Great sent envoys to study the religions of the various neighboring nations whose representatives had been urging him to embrace their respective faiths. The result is amusingly described by the chronicler Nestor. Of the Muslim Bulgarians of the Volga the envoys reported there is no gladness among them; only sorrow and a great stench. He also said that the Bulgars' religion of Islam was undesirable due to its taboo against alcoholic beverages and pork; Vladimir said on that occasion: "Drinking is the joy of all Rus'. We cannot exist without that pleasure." Ukrainian and Russian sources also describe Vladimir consulting with Jewish envoys (who may or may not have been Khazars), and questioning them about their religion but ultimately rejecting it, saying that their loss of Jerusalem was evidence of their having been abandoned by God. Roman Catholic missionaries came too and so did Orthodox. Ult ...

Without love, the rest is just noise.

Bookings open for July 12 - 19th. The trip is for 7 nights and 8 days. Trip includes Airfares from Oman to Dubai/Dubai to Istanbul and return/Airfare from Cappadocia to Istanbul/airport transfers, Private bus for 14 pax, 3 star Hotel stay/ Halfboard /English speaking guide, tour and parking fees. Highlights and cities covered are:- Istanbul - – Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, Hippodrome,Museums, Dolmabahce Palace and Grand Bazzar. (Tour for Bosphorus Tour on the boat can be arranged as extra) Pergamom – one of the 7 churches of the apocalypse, ruins, acropolis, ascleption Ephesus – Library of celsus, temple of artemis, Virgin mary’s house • Pamukkale – Amphitheater, Thermal pool of calcium deposits and healing waters featured in a Hindi movie. Ajab Gazab love story Cappadocia – 2 days – The land of Fairy Chimneys - Deverent valley, Goreme open air museum, Uchisar Castle, Derinkuyu underground, Ihara valley, Love valley, etc (Hot Air balloon can be arranged as extra) This trip .. ...

Turkey is the 6th song from my year around the world traveling and writing music. On this song Hoca, with his glorious Pala Remzi (Machete Mustache), plays S...

Florence, an amazing city of quintessential Italian narrow streets, incredibly beautiful and historic architecture and an abundant vistas around every corner.

Spider Assassin - climb from ground level to the top of Hagia Sophia in 25 seconds or less!

If I am spending less time on FB I am spending more time exploring Turkey. :)

"There is in all visible things an invisible fecundity, a dimmed light, a meek namelessness, a hidden wholeness. This mysterious Unity and Integrity is Wisdom, the Mother of all, Natura naturans [“nature naturing” or "nature doing what nature does”]. There is in all things an inexhaustible sweetness and purity, a silence that is a fount of action and joy. It rises up in wordless gentleness and flows out to me from the unseen roots of all created being, welcoming me tenderly, saluting me with indescribable humility. This is at once my own being, my own nature, and the Gift of my Creator’s Thought and Art within me, speaking as Hagia Sophia, [“holy wisdom”] speaking as my sister, Wisdom." ~ “Hagia Sophia,” The Collected Poems of Thomas Merton

Surah Al-Hajj [39] Permission [to fight] has been given to those who are being fought, because they were wronged. And indeed, Allah is competent to give them...

Experience smooth, hair free skin by using Tria Beauty’s laser hair removal. Use our laser treatment in the privacy of your own home to achieve long lasting results. Stop the cycle of endless shaving and waxing by using Tria’s Hair Removal Laser.

QUOTES from the SAINTS... “It is possible to offer frequent and fervent prayer even at the market place or strolling alone. It is possible also in your place of business, while buying or selling, or even while cooking.” (Saint John Chrysostom) (Photo:Portrait of Saint John Chrysostom of Antioch (Hagios Ioannis Chrysostomos). An early Byzantine mosaic from the Cathedral of Hagia Sophia in Constantinople (modern Istanbul). The mosaic is approximately 1,000 years old. - wikipedia.org)

Istanbul Highlights Day 5: * This morning I learned that some babies in history have been presented to their fathers in baskets that cost more than my car. (Read we visited the Topkapi Palace and it was ultra-lavish. Still not sure why one needs giant emeralds in the handle of a dagger though). * Did you know Harem does not mean 24/7 orgy town? In fact the Harem was a very important part of keeping the empire controlled and family-strife free! Disappointed? Well rest assured there was still some polygamist sexy time goin down. * The Hagia Sophia is big enough for the statue of liberty to do jumping jacks inside. As awesome as that sounds, I think it's best for all parties that she doesn't though... * I got a taste of the Grand Bazzar. I want more! (If you want presents comment below) * After a busy morning, a stop on the Galata bridge to watch fishermen cast their last lines and see the sun set was a great change of pace. * Walking home we realized there was a major soccer match in town. After contemplati ...

ISTANBUL (4 DAYS) - Day 2 - Topkapi Palace Start your day with Topkapi Palace. It served as the main seat of Ottoman Empire for hundreds of years. The palace itself is very expansive. Don't forget to visit the museum of Islamic relics (contains very sacred items including swords of the Prophet (SAWW), the four caliphs and things belonging to other prophets). Another important museum inside the palace is the Royal Jewels. - Try Dondurma (Turkish Ice Cream) As you come out of Topkapi Palace, start walking towards the Grand Bazar in Sultanahmet district. On your way, stop at one of the shops to try Dondurma (Turkish ice cream) which is very unique in its taste and texture. - Grand Bazaar With its countless maze-like streets, the Grand Bazaar is buzzing with energy. Here you will find anything including rugs, lamps, cloth, shawls, lokum (Turkish delights), perfumes, spices etc. etc. Haggling is a must before buying anything. However, for shopping it is recommended that you try shops just outside the main peri ...

Istanbul is rapidly changing as Turkey's economy surges. Working-class neighborhoods are being cleared to make room for expensive villas, luxury hotels and upscale restaurants. A new documentary film warns that the latest mega-projects will damage the social and cultural fabric of the city.

Sophia (Σοφíα, Greek for "wisdom") is a central idea in Hellenistic philosophy and religion, Platonism, Gnosticism, Orthodox Christianity, Esoteric Christianity, as well as Christian mysticism. Sophiology is a philosophical concept regarding wisdom, as well as a theological concept regarding the wisdom of the biblical God. Sophia is honored as a goddess of wisdom by Gnostics, as well as by some Neopagan, New Age, and feminist-inspired Goddess spirituality groups. In Orthodox and Roman Catholic Christianity, Sophia, or rather Hagia Sophia (Holy Wisdom), is an expression of understanding for the second person of the Holy Trinity, (as in the dedication of the church of Hagia Sophia in Istanbul) as well as in the Old Testament, as seen in the Book of Proverbs 9:1, but not an angel or goddess. Amor may refer to: Eros, the Greek god of love also known as Amor The land of the ancient Amorites, also known as Amurru Cupid, the Roman god of love also known by his Latin name Amor 1221 Amor, an asteroid Amor ast ...

Domed Structures - Amazing Architecture Domed Structures through the Ages A dome is an element of architecture that resembles the hollow upper half of a sphere. Dome structures made of various materials have a long architectural lineage extending into prehistory. Corbel domes and true domes have been found in the ancient Middle East in modest buildings and tombs. The construction of the first technically advanced true domes began in the Roman Architectural Revolution,[1] when they were frequently used by the Romans to shape large interior spaces of temples and public buildings, such as thePantheon. This tradition continued unabated after the adoption of Christianity in theByzantine (East Roman) religious and secular architecture, culminating in the revolutionary pendentive dome of the 6th century church Hagia Sophia. Squinches, the technique of making a transition from a square shaped room to a circular dome, was most likely invented by the ancient Persians. The Sassanid Empire initiated the construction ...

HISTORY OF BRICKS Bricks dated 10,000 years old were found in the Middle East, and the earliest mention of brick making was found in the Bible, Exodus 1:14; 5:4-19. These records showed the Israelites made bricks for their Egyptian rulers with earth and straw. Examples of the civilizations who used mud brick are the ancient Egyptians and the Indus Valley Civilization, where it was used exclusively. In particular, it is evident from the ruins of Buhen, Mohenjo-daro and Harappa. The first sun-dried bricks were made in Mesopotamia (what is now Iraq), in the ancient city of Ur in about 4000 BC, although the arch used for drying the bricks was not actually found. In Sumerian times offerings of food and drink were presented to “the Bone god”, who was “represented in the ritual by the first brick”. More recently, mortar for the foundations of the Hagia Sophia in Istanbul was mixed with accompanied by prayers, placed between every 12 bricks. The Romans made use of fired bricks, and the Roman legions, whic ...

1 - Arrival in Istanbul    *** GELDINIZ! Welcome to Turkey! We will meet you at the airport and transfer you to your hotel. After a short briefing about your tour, you will have the afternoon free to rest and to explore Istanbul on your own. Overnight in Istanbul     Day 2 - Istanbul - (B/L)   This will be a full day of exploring Istanbul's most iconic sites:   * Blue Mosque/Sultanahmet Mosque (Camii) built during the reign of Sultan Ahmet I during 1609-1616. It is the only mosque in Turkey with six minarets. Due to its magnificent hand-dyed blue, green and white Iznik tiles it has been named the "Blue Mosque" by Europeans. The central dome is 43 m in height and is 33.4 m in diameter; it also boasts 260 windows.   * Hagia Sophia/Aya Sofya is a truly awe-inspiring, 1,400-year-old Byzantine cathedral which houses mosaics, relics and iron work. Hagia Sophia was, for nearly a thousand years, the largest enclosed space in the world, and still seen as one of the world's most important architectural monum ...

slide of watermelon at dusk with the Hagia Sophia for background as the call to pray waffle from the Blue Mosque. ?

Walked 6ish miles around Istanbul today. Saw the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Basilica Cistern, and ate amazing food. This city is incredible!

A picture of the Blue Mosque from inside the Hagia Sophia

Turkish parliament considers bid to turn Hagia Sophia into mosque - A parliamentary commi...

Petition for turning Aya Sofia into a mosque. More interesting than that are the comments bellow. Via

Church, mosque, museum - mosque? Parliament considering bid to turn Hagia Sophia in into mosque

A parliamentary commission in Turkey is considering an application by citizens to turn the Hagia Sophia in Istanbul into a mosque.

parliamentary committee considering petitions to turn Ayia Sophia into a mosque after 70+ years as a museum.

Is Hagia Sophia in Istanbul / Constantinople to turn into mosque for prayers?

Hagia Sophia museum, the Madonna of buildings, could become a mosque again (via

Turkish parliament considering bid to turn Hagia Sophia into mosque

Parliament considering bid to turn former basilica a museum, into a

loved hearing in Hagia Sophia (by proxy) and Stanford Memorial Church. this weekend.

Parliament considering bid to turn Hagia Sophia

good picture that shows the height of the dome of Hagia Sophia, something it's usually hard to capture in a photo.

Good Morning! ORTHODOX METROPOLITAN CATHEDRAL - SÃO PAULO - BRAZIL The Metropolitan Orthodox Cathedral of St. Paul is not "Greek" but "Antiochian", ie is linked to our Arab community. Nothing against our fellow Greeks, just to clarify any questions. Construction began in 1940, inspired by the Hagia Sophia in Constantinople. A religious temple built with all the nobility of Byzantine architecture, which blends the apostolic churches of the East and own liturgies that developed in soil São Paulo, with Masses in Arabic, Greek and Portuguese. Inside the church that reproduces the Hagia Sophia, Istanbul, look at the sky, means a spectacle of beauty built by men. Frescoes adorn the vaults and mezzanines, and the dome of the altar is filled with iconography. In the background, the beautiful iconostácio carved in Carrara marble, carved by hand thrills. An environment that conveys peace of mind and enchantment. Currently, nine are the patriarchates: Constantinople (Ecumenical Patriarchate), Alexandria, Antioch, ...

I have mixed feelings about Hagia Sophia being returned to use as a mosque (see the report below). Ideally it would be really wonderful if it could be returned the the Orthodox Church, its original owners. On the other hand the thoughts of it merely being a museum as at present are not happy ones for me. At least if it was returned to being a mosque, it would be returning to being used for the worship of God. I don't know the layout, but if part of it could be used as a mosque and another an Orthodox church, while the major part of it remains open as a museum this might be a good compromise, as well as being a helpful gesture of religious tolerance on the part of the Government of Turkey.

The southern front of Hagia Sophia and details of its reliefs Trabzon (Trebizond ) Turkey

Becky left for Turkey to visit her daughter and her family. I wrote the following poem on her departure: My Beloved Embarking on a Journey My beloved is embarking on a journey Going to see her daughter and her family My heart is torn between joy and sadness Istanbul is full of fascinations She will have a great time She will see the confluence of East and West Have a taste of Ataturk’s secular creation Turks are wonderful people Whether hoteliers, taxi-drivers, or street vendors They are not out to get unsuspecting tourists They regard every visitor as their guest Treat him with the utmost courtesy Though the Ottoman Empire is no more The Turks carry themselves with the utmost dignity Reflecting their class, reflecting their glorious past It is comforting that America and Turkey are allies Their worldviews don’t clash on a daily basis My beloved will arrive bearing gifts There will be a happy reunion at the airport Her demonstrative daughter will shriek with joy in English The toddler grandson will sh ...

From church to mosque know a museum ... Hagia sophia!!!

Here are a selection of zoom images of interiors and art from Hagia Sophia, Theotokos Pammacharistos and Our Savior in the Chora - I have chosen some of my favorite images to give you a taste of what you might see on a visit Istanbul today. Most tourists never get the chance to see the Pammakarist...

. fun fact, in Civ5 G&K the leader screen for Byzantium shows the original Hagia Sophia in the background without the minarets

fun fact, my favorite building is the Hagia Sophia

accused of racism by Turkish community who say toy is offensive because as is 'based on a mosque' Hagia Sophia

Between Orient, Europe & Asia the city of Istanbul is a uniquely cosmopolitan place with a culture and character shaped by the influence of three continents, where life follows the flow of the Golden Horn, the Sea of Marmara and the Bosphorus. Wherever you wander its streets, the city has a special and indescribable feeling. This is probably why its character has influenced the work of so many artists and writers. I personally feel this emotion even more strongly when walking its shores. It has a very special light and feeling of quietness despite its 16 million people. Istanbul is one one of those cities where you can feel history, splendour and greatness. So here is 60 beautiful images of Istanbul. you should certainly visit to explore its streets and to find an answer about this indescribable feeling

Istanbul's Hagia Sophia is full of with tourists and visitors on a sunny Sunday!

How about traveling the historical peninsula, Grand Bazaar, egiptian bazaar or any random spot in istanbul with a friendly photographer who knows the city?　While you are enjoying the city, I will be dealing with photography which means you don't have to deal with taking pictures.

Headed to Turkey Friday, anybody there? What should I see?

Okay Hollywood...I've had enough chase scenes on the roof of the Grand Bazaar in Istanbul. The Internatinal, Taken 2, Skyfall & a Bourne or 2. Is it just cheap to film in Istanbul? I understand the Hagia Sophia is amazing, but let's try a different local for a 2013 please.

General interior view of the Hagia Sophia (Istanbul - Turkey)

Zoom views of Hagia Sophia and other Byzantine Monuments:

Please former Garden of Times players. I need help building my wonder Hagia Sophia. Please three people go in a help me. Thanks

Zoom views of the interior and Byzantine art of the Hagia Sophia mosque in Istanbul, Turkey...

been moody because she had reach Hagia Sophia just now. *jealous*

Hagia Sophia (: from church to mosque to museum .

Sulemineye mosque, love the bazaars, Hagia Sophia worth seeing + generally hanging out by Bosphorous!

I actually saw someone planking in front of the Hagia Sophia...

The hotel which is located at İstanbul’s historical center is only three minutes away from the Hagia Sophia, Basilica Cistern, Blue Mosque and the Grand Bazaar. There is a deluxe restaurant with a wonderful view at the terrace of the hotel. The Rast Hotel’s rooms are furnished with the best classical and sincere furniture. Rooms include free wireless network connection, safeboxes and LCD Televisions. At the suite rooms and the terrace, there is a view of the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia and the Bosphorus. Rast Restaurant is serving the breakfast open-buffet with a fantastic view of İstanbul city in the mornings. There are two computers and two massage chairs which are open for the guests usage.Guests have the oppurtunity to use the dry-cleaning and the Laundry services. The information desk is located at the lobby which guests can have information about car renting, sightseeing, İstanbul tours and many other facilities. The Rast Hotel which has a great location is only one minute away from Sultanahme ...

Hagia Sophia. Life ambition to go here

How amateur of me: battery pack empty and I loaded uncharged battery - so had to cut short Hagia Sophia tour.

“Hagia Sophia. what a beautiful piece of architecture one of the first mosque to introduce the dome.

HAGIA SOPHIA (Visit of ISTANBUL) THE ONLY PLACE ON EARTH WHERE Christian's god and the Muslim's GOD IS UNDER SINGLE ROOF: The Hagia Sophia had been a church for 916 years, a mosque for 481 years and since 1934, it is playing the character of a museum. It has a history that can, at best be described as being unique. The Hagia Sofia had its beginnings in a humble looking wooden roofed basilica way back in 390 A.D. The church was dedicated to Hagia Sophia or the Divine Wisdom. The church, then known as Megale Ecclesia or The Great Church, was burnt and reduced to rubble in 404 A.D. At its site, Theodosius built an even bigger church. This building was again destroyed in the Nika Revolt of 532 A.D against Emperor Justinian. Under his orders, and supervised by architects Anthemius of Tralles and Isidorus of Miletus, the Hagia Sophia began to be rebuilt in that year itself. The Fourth Crusade of 1204 saw the plunder of the Hagia Sophia. The iconoclastic crusaders systematically eradicated all images with religi ...

Sitting in a shop called "Tokyo Donut" in Yangon, Myanmar. The doors are decorated with pictures of the Hagia Sophia and the Statue of Liberty. I'm watching a documentary about the Anheiuser-Busch brewery in St. Louis.

Isn't time for England to do the right thing! Send her home!

The beautiful Mihrab of Hagia Sophia mosque in Istanbul, Turkey.

Finally framed and hung my original watercolor of the Hagia Sophia and my antique whirling dervish page…

playzones: The Hagia Sophia is a former Orthodox patriarchal basilica, later a mosque, and now a museum in Is…

Hagia Sophia (Aya Sofya meaning Holy Wisdom) - Used to read about this book when I was in high school.…

Racism is sadly alive and well in the world, but in a LEGO Star Wars toy set?

The most famous mosque in Istanbul, turkey; the Hagia Sophia. One of the most known medieval times architecture

The body of a missing 33-year-old New York woman was found Saturday morning in Istanbul, according to the Turkish state-run news agency. The Anadolu Agency reported that residents discovered a woman’s body near the city walls of the Fatih district, a historic and working-c …

There has been a list in my brain a mile long of crafts I have wanted to make for years! Life, time and (let's be honest), cakes get in the way most of the time, but lately I have been buckling down and crossing stuff off my list. I've made wreaths, hair bows for Aline, a jar for me to put all my "Happy Events" for the year, a "Candy Can" for work, and now I'm painting some surprise wine glasses. Crafting is expensive and time consuming but fun, and definitely a gift given to me by my parents. My dad is a little more hardcore, less glitter and more History (his "crafts" include a working Barbie guillotine and the Hagia Sophia) but my mom was always a gangsta with a glue gun. Diane Cowan Rougelot used to make EVERYTHING look easy, and I would be so frustrated when I couldn't do everything as easily as she did. Now, Aline begs me to help, and I see the same frustration when she can't do it like I can. Luckily, I know from experience and I can assure her, she'll get it, one day.

A once-in-a-lifetime experience, singing in Hagia Sophia Cathedral, as provided by the amazing team at CCRMA at Stanford in the amazing new Bing Concert Hall. Now on to another program of music from Jerusalem in Memorial Church Saturday.

Dubai was awesome, I had never been before and the sights were amazing. Now I am back in Istanbul, one of the most interesting cities in the world! Kinda bummed we don't have any time off here, I still haven't been to the Hagia Sophia. I hope I spelled that right...

Please people of Turkey...I am visiting your beautiful country after studying your history and art years ago. Would you be so kind as to not bomb anything else? My friend says the tourist lines will be shorter but I would rather they be long and peaceful. But I am working out in case I got to run fast!

Ross Ritterman talks about the experience of working with the CCRMA to prepare Bing Concert Hall for tonight's Hagia Sophia Performance

Stuck at O'Hare waiting for the Dutch to get it together and get me to Amsterdam! So excited for Istanbul!

Pushed through yesterday for 24 hrs so that I'm on a normal sleep schedule (opposed to sleeping from noon to 8pm or 4pm till midnight)...So today I feel a bit zombieish & backwards (the sun is up when I START my work!?!) But deadlines are colliding & a lot of work needs to happen.Black Axe extra, Legends, & 2 freelace projects.BLEARG

Made it to Turkey a couple hours ago. About to hit the sack. Thanks for all the well wishes.

Earlier this month, the Turkish community in the nation of Austria brought up a lawsuit against the Danish Lego corporation. Why did the see it as necessary to threaten legal action against these p...

In Istanbul again this week, hope to get to see a few things this time around.

The Turkish Cultural Community of Austria asked Lego to apologize for a playset of Jabba the Hutt's palace, which the group said is too similar to the great Hagia Sophia.

At Hagia Sophia. Today's weather is nice alhamdulillah.

Some Turkish leaders are offended by a Lego Star Wars set, claiming it resembles a famous mosque. The Turkish Cultural Community of Austria said in a statement that a Lego set of Jabba's Palace from the Star Wars series is racist because it appears to closely resemble the Hagia Sophia mosque in Ista...

A Turkish cultural center in Austria has stirred up an international tiff over a "Star Wars" Lego toy: specifically, a model of Jabba the Hutt's domed palace that the Turks say looks too much like Istanbul's sacred Hagia Sophia monument. "The missiles, guns and weapons ... in the …

You can call Jabba the Hutt a lot of things (gross, lazy, terrible to sit next to on an airplane), but calling him racist might be a stretch. Austria's Turkish community wants an apology from Lego, accusing the company of using the famous Hagia Sophia mosque as a model for Jabba's Palace in one of i...

A calligraphic piece on display in the Summer of 2012 inside the Hagia Sophia in Istanbul. The writing is a hadith of Ali (R) describing the appearance of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ.

A Turkish community in Austria has accused Lego of racism amid claims a model from its Star Wars range resembles a renowned mosque.

The top trending phrase on Yahoo right now is "Lego Racism." That sounds like a poem title to me. Anybody else in?

Elegant, this hotel is in Istanbul’s Old Town, a short walk from Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace.

Susan Turner Ceiling view inside the Hagia Sophia (Holy Wisdom in Greek) Temple of Sophia in Istanbul ♥ remember she was calling :P

Members of the Turkish Cultural Community of Austria have criticised Lego, claiming the Jabba's Palace toy set resembles the Hagia Sophia mosque in Istanbul.

A Turkish cultural group in Austria is furious that Jabba's palace sort of resembles the Hagia Sophia.

I saw on the news some twit being offended by a Lego starwars playset of jabba's palace. If you try very hard and look very closely and you're a fraking moron it apparently resembles some mosque in turkey. Also jabba is making children hate Muslims. I don't hate Muslims, however this jackhole needs a kick to his ignorant face.

The Lego people had an absolutely PERFECT comeback to this idiotic business about the Turks and the Hagia Sophia and the Jabba the Hut thing.

Set in the city centre of Istanbul at a peaceful Fatih location, Pianoforte Hotel extends a warm welcome to quests with friendly Service for a restful stay.

Eliana Johnson writes on NRO: Lego is under fire from members of the Turkish community in Austria who claim that one of its models resembles Istanbul’s Hagia Sophia mosque and is therefore racist. The offending toy is Lego’s Jabba’s Palace model, part of a series of Lego toys based on the Star Wars ...

Lego accused of racism because its version of Jabba's hut supposedly resembles Hagia Sophia mosque. Not a joke -

FIT LOW FARE TURKEY TRIP BEST DEAL FOR FIT PRIVATE MIN 6PAX TOUR PACKAGE! Turkey 10D/9N USD 2,050 (dep 16 Mar) Day 01 (X/X/X) Jakarta Start the trip from Soekarno Hatta International airport and heading to Istanbul Day 02 (X/L/D) Istanbul Upon arrival at Istanbul Ataturk airport, meet local guide transfer to the hotel. Check-in and short rest. (Please note check-in time at most hotels is 14:00) . Departure for halfday city tour with a visit to the main historical center of Istanbul, Sultanahmet with its Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman monuments. Lunch at a local restaurant. The monuments to be visited are the Blue Mosque, Roman Hippodrome, the Hagia Sophia, the Topkapi Palace with its Treasury and Sacred Trust sections. Transfer from the hotel to the historical center Sultanahmet. Walking tour starting with the Roman Hippodrome and the monuments lined up along the spina of the original hippodrome built by Emperor Septimus Severus in 203 AD. Obelisk of Theodosius, walled column, serpentine column from Delphi ...

John The Baptist From the Deesis Panel of the south gallery of Hagia Sophia,

Bosphorus Cruise,The Blue Mosque,Golden Horn,Black Sea...The Spice Market and Hagia Sophia...Excittted to see/experience all...Starting for 4 Days Trip/National Meet to Istanbul,Turkey

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