Assic. Prof., Dr.
Mimar Sinan Fine Arts University
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Hagia Sophia: beneath and during the Iconoclastic period.
Until 1998 all of the studies about Hagia Sophia of Istanbul were architectural or art historical. No one, to my knowledge, was eager to study what was beneath. For the first time a documentary film director obtained a permit to film beneath the Hagia Sophia. Since time was very limited diver cameramen were employed. This study continued with intervals until 2009. A kilometer long tunnels towards all directions, spolia from the former churches, in situ large water pipes, chambers, whose function unknown and sections with plastered walls were filmed. A second important aspect in Hagia Sophia is the period of Iconoclasm. The best known example from this period is referred most of the time in the form of the cross in the nearby Hagia Eirene. Crosses painted over the mosaics were overlooked. According to the consensus, the oldest mosaic with figure in the building is Virgin Mary holding Jesus Christ in the conch of the apse, dated to 867. Prior to this, apparently iconoclasts were in power, hence figurative depictions were not permitted. Crosses painted in the lunettes could be the only remaining art pieces from that period in Hagia Sophia.