Hagia Sophia, I

I had a very remarkable experience that I would like to share very briefly here. My good friend Reha Gunay arranged for us to visit Hagia Sophia and go up to its dome. His student Erdinc was a great host as he took us on the elevator to the top, 55 meters from the ground. The actual ceiling of the dome is 56 meters tall and I touched the very center of the dome. It was a truly exhilarating feeling. After we photographed the dome ceiling, we photographed the various parts of the lower levels.

Later on we walked outside and saw the most magnificent view of Sultanahmet and Topkapi Palace. I will post more photographs of the experience when I go back home. Here are some of the highlights of the memorable experience.

Related posts:

1. From the roof of Hagia Sophia
2. Hagia Sophia: A Short Video
3. Hagia Sophia, III: View from the roof
4. Hagia Sophia, II: Inside
5. Hagia Sophia, a new mosaic unveiled
6. Kardelen in Infrared
7. Kardelen