Hagia Sophia aka: Ayasofya

It was still under renovation in July 2009 – the frescoes upstairs are pretty cool.

It was undergoing restoration when I was there in December, but even so it’s definitely worth seeing. Awe-inspiring. One of the most amazing places I’ve ever been to.

Undergoing restoration. Scaffolding in 1/4 back section. Will be brilliant when done. Yellow back colour makes it look kind of dark. 4 gold mosaics on walls. Access to an upstairs – good window lighting.

Awe-inspiring, astounding, not of this world…don’t miss it!

Massive – the true medium of expression here has to be the sunlight. As the Sun rises and falls, it streams through the numerous windows to give the place so many different feelings – all in the course of 3 hours. I also enjoyed looking for aspects of when it was a Catholic church. Go visit!

I decided ‘Istanbul’ covered Hagia Sophia and I wanted to make room for another place. :)

There is an on-going world-wide vote for the next 7 Wonders of the World, since only one of the original is still standing (the Pyramids of Egypt).

The Hagia Sophia is one of the 21 finalists, so go vote for it, and for your other 6 picks! Voting ends July 7, 2007.

http://www.new7wonders.com/index.php

Out of control. Seriously, being here freaked me out in the way that you are just totally astounded at the power and talent of mankind. Don’t miss it—it is nothing short of a religious experience whether you’re going there for that or not. I wasn’t, but places like this really make you consider the possibility of divine intervention.

This church was phenominal…I could feel God’s presence. Literally brought tears to my eyes. Inspiring.

I was astounded to see the mix of ancient cultures, side-by-side. The beauty of the place is astounding. Even the light feels different here.