Istanbul Aya Sofya - Church of Divine Wisdom

Previously an active Catholic Church, the Aya Sofya is now under restoration to be kept as a historical site. Unfortunately, it wasn't well planned and thus the dome ceiling is not well supported by columns like the Blue Mosque. Earthquakes have done some damages to the church but it still was impressive when we visited. 1

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3 Unfortunately, many mosaics like this one were partially destroyed.

4 This is the picture of what the mosaic originally looked like.

5 Many of the mosaics were destroyed or painted over. But when you walk to the front of the church and look up, you see a glowing vision of the Mother Mary with Child glancing back down at you.

6 It is said that if you put your finger into the hole, make a wish and the finger emerges moist, your wish would come true. But since millions of tourists have stuck their finger in the hole, it wouldn't be a surprise that the hole would be wet from all the sweat.

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The interior of the church is very intricate. It is obvious that once upon a time, it was a massively impressive church. All along both sides of the church, you get a glimpse of bits and pieces of mosaics that once decorated the walls of this beautful structure. Along the balcony of the second story, you can see remnants of crosses carved into the railings.There are also huge Muslim plates that looked to be covering up other religious symbols of this Catholic church.

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