Hagia Sophia: A Historical Journey

Hagia Sophia, originally a church built in the 6th century by Byzantine Emperor Justinian, is a masterpiece of Byzantine architecture. It was the largest dome until the Renaissance. The building was later converted into a mosque by the Ottomans, with Christian mosaics plastered over and new Islamic symbols added. The prayer niche was adjusted to face Mecca. Today, Hagia Sophia stands as a museum, showcasing its rich history and architectural brilliance.

What is Hagia Sophia known for in both the Christian and Muslim worlds?

• A library

• A house of worship

• A palace

• A fortress

Who was responsible for building Hagia Sophia?

• Emperor Justinian

• Emperor Nero

• Emperor Augustus

• Emperor Constantine

When was Hagia Sophia completed?

• 450 AD

• 600 AD

• 700 AD

• 537 AD

What was the largest dome in the world until the Renaissance?

• St. Paul's Cathedral

• Hagia Sophia

• St. Peter's Basilica

• The Pantheon

What impression does the interior of Hagia Sophia give?

• A dark and gloomy space

• A golden weightless shell

• A crowded marketplace

• A simple and plain room

What happened to the Christian mosaics when Hagia Sophia was converted into a mosque?

• They were preserved

• They were plastered over

• They were moved to a museum

• They were sold

Which direction do mosques face?

• Jerusalem

• Constantinople

• Rome

• Mecca

Why is the prayer niche in Hagia Sophia slightly off-center?

• It was moved during renovations

• It faces Jerusalem

• It faces Mecca

• It was a design error