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Hagia Sophia in Constantinople: Unveiling Its Integrated Conceptual Design Through Comparative Analysis

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Abstract

The architectural complexity of Hagia Sophia, a grand monument erected by Justinian in Constantinople, has been a topic of substantial investigation across diverse disciplines such as architecture, art history, and archaeology. Research efforts focused on elucidating the geometric relationships intrinsic to the monument's design, providing invaluable insights into the philosophical and symbolic influences that shaped its construction. However, despite significant strides, a comprehensive understanding of Hagia Sophia’s complex geometric design remains elusive due to the inherent challenges in integrating diverse geometric patterns into a unified model. The current study aims to bridge this gap through a comparative analysis of the mathematical and geometric principles used in the design of Hagia Sophia with the inscribed in stone complex geometrical design found in the Octagon at the Galerious Complex in Thessaloniki and has recently been recognised as the conceptual design for the Kastas monument at Amphipolis. By exploring parallels and creating comparisons, the article deepens the understanding of the design intent and geometric foundations that underpin the enduring architectural legacy of Hagia Sophia.

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Data availability

All relevant data supporting the findings of this study are available within the article. The raw data, as well as any additional materials and datasets generated during the course of this research, are available upon reasonable request from the corresponding author.

Notes

  1. As stated in Psalms, 103:24 (Holy Bible, New revised Standard Version, 1989) ὡς ἐμεγαλύνθη τὰ ἔργα σου, Κύριε· πάντα ἐν Σοφίᾳ ἐποίησας ἐπληρώθη ἡ γῆ τῆς κτίσεώς σου, translation: How great are thy works, O Lord? thou hast made all things in wisdom: the earth is filled with thy riches.

  2. Translated with the approval of the author: “A visitor familiar with the architects' philosophical culture could grasp the deeper meaning inside the church, while others could still sense the divine power radiating from above, drawing their gaze and spirit upwards towards its origin.”

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Acknowledgements

The author would like to express his profound gratitude to Prof. Dimosthenis Avramidis of the Athens School of Fine Art for his invaluable contributions to my study of Byzantine art. His expertise and insightful discussions have significantly enriched the author’s understanding and appreciation of this complex artistic tradition. Furthermore, the author extends his heartfelt thanks to Prof. Dominic J. O'Meara for his kindness in providing early access to his published works, and for his guidance in Neoplatonic studies.

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    Demetrius Savvides

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Savvides, D. Hagia Sophia in Constantinople: Unveiling Its Integrated Conceptual Design Through Comparative Analysis. Nexus Netw J 26, 325–352 (2024). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00004-023-00758-5

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