The Early Byzantine period launched the construction of magnificently designed churches aimed at evoking a heavenly presence into those who gathered to worship there. Chief among the numerous churches built was the church of Hagia Sophia (Fig. 1.1). While commissioned by Emperor Justinian I in 532, the principal architects were two academic figures: Anthemius of Tralles and Isidorus of Miletus. Following within the footsteps of the Early Byzantine ambitions, the purpose of the church was to provide the public with a shared place to pray and celebrate Christ. A number of key features distinguish Hagia Sophia as an innovative landmark of the period. The large magnitude of the church, as well as the massive central dome, represents “one of the
