Question

How does hagia sofia's design reflects its function as a religious building. which element do you feel is the most successful? if we think of justinian as the head of the church as well as the state, the building takes on a political implication. what aspects of the building do you think would emphasize the emperor's position in society? is byzantine architecture more about the ruler or god?

Answer 1

The Hagia Sofia's design is grand and very large. This reflects the church in that religion is a big imposing force in people's lives, as the building is physically. The intricate design of the art is successful in drawing in people and also showing the grandness of the church. This also plays into Justinian's position in society. He wanted to be seen as a strong force overseeing everything, and having such a large, imposing building to his name helps emphasize that position. In the times of Byzantine architecture, the ruler gained a lot of their power from their believed connection to God. Because of this, Byzantine architecture about God, but in doing so was also about the ruler by extension.