Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
MOSAICS
In Justinian's day, the great dome, the semidomes, the north and south tympana and the vaults of the
narthexes, aisles and galleries were covered in gold mosaics. Remnants exist, but one can only imagine what
the interior looked like when overlaid with glittering and gleaming tesserae (small glass tiles incorporating
gold leaf). There were no figurative mosaics at this time - these date from after the Iconoclastic period,
which ended in the early 9th century. When the church was converted into a mosque, the mosaics were con-
sidered inappropriate; fortunately most were covered with plaster and not destroyed. Some were uncovered
and restored during building works in the mid-19th century, and though once again covered (by paint), they
were left in good condition for a final unveiling after the mosque was deconsecrated.
Vikings are said to have left the 'Eric woz here'-type graffiti that is carved into the balustrade in the
upstairs south gallery. You'll find it near the Deesis mosaic.
