Hagia Sophia
Give an overview of Hagia Sophia and also about the Greek history
The story behind its construction begins in 532 AD when Emperor Justinian I commissioned the build of what was then called the Great Church (Megale Ekklesia). It replaced an older church that had been destroyed by riots four years prior, and Justinian saw it as a way to demonstrate his power and wealth after reclaiming much of the former Roman empire territories during his reign. The result was an awe-inspiring structure boasting intricate mosaics depicting religious figures, grand marble pillars adorned with floral motifs, stained glass windows flooding light into its vast interior space, and soaring domes encircling monumental walls. This spectacular design proved influential throughout history: subsequent churches featuring similar designs have been erected across Europe such as St Mark's Basilica in Venice or Aachen Cathedral in Germany just to name two examples .
When Constantinople fell to Sultan Mehmed II’s rule at end 15th century , Hagia Sophia became converted into mosque – minarets were added along interior Christian symbols covered up replaced Islamic verses . Although ownership changed hands many times through centuries remained functional house prayers until Turkish Republic declared secular nation 1931 . Reopening public museum same year marked shift towards progressivism within Istanbul displaying remnants both Christianity Islam side by side emphasizing toleration among different faiths thereby becoming symbol multiculturalism region given fact still holds title UNESCO World Heritage Site .
Today Hagia Sophia remains testament remarkable engineering achievements Greeks can be seen reflection society’s long standing commitment preserving past while looking forward future – having functioned temple cathedral mosque now serves purpose educational hub open people all walks life allowing them gain insight into fascinating history complex culture it represents.