Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Apse
The 9th-century mosaic of the Virgin and Christ Child in the apse is the focal point of the
nave. A
mimber
(pulpit) and
mihrab
(prayer niche indicating the direction of Mecca) were
added by the Ottomans.
Dome
The famous dome measures 30m in diameter and 56m in height. It is supported by 40
massive ribs resting on four huge pillars concealed in the interior walls. On its comple-
tion, the Byzantine historian Procopius described it as being 'hung from heaven on a
golden chain'.
Seraphs
The four huge winged angels at the base of the dome were originally mosaic, but two (on
the western side) were recreated as frescoes after being damaged in the 13th century. All
four faces were covered by metallic discs during the Ottoman period, and are slowly being
restored. One was unveiled in 2009.
Saints Mosaics
When in the nave, look up towards the northeast (to your left if you are facing the apse),
and you will see three mosaics at the base of the northern tympanum (semicircle) beneath
the dome. These are 9th-century portraits of St Ignatius the Younger, St John Chrysostom
and St Ignatius Theodorus of Antioch. Next to them (but only visible from the upstairs
north gallery) is a mosaic portrait of Emperor Alexandros.
Weeping Column
Legend has it that this column in the northeast aisle was blessed by St Gregory the Mir-
acle Worker and that putting one's finger into its hole can lead to ailments being healed if
the finger emerges moist.
