Inside St. Sophia, there are no tombs, statues, or altars to obstruct the view in any direction. The space is open, allowing visitors to appreciate the graceful lines of the arches and the simple beauty of the walls. The walls are painted in a soft yellow shade, almost as deep as orange, and they are outlined with various dark shades of green. This combination of colors creates a calm, peaceful atmosphere that enhances the church’s spiritual presence The Dome of St. Sophia A Monumental Achievement.
A Critic’s Opinion “Nothing to See in St. Sophia”
An American critic once remarked that there was “nothing to see in St. Sophia.” In a way, this is true when compared to other grand churches, which often have intricate decorations, altars, and tombs. However, the beauty of St. Sophia lies in its simplicity and spiritual space rather than its physical decorations.
The Sultan’s Balcony and Religious Symbols
St. Sophia contains a beautiful balcony that is reserved for the Sultan in case he visits the mosque to worship. The Sultan would be sheltered by gilded screens, creating a place of honor for him Customized Tours Balkan.
The mihrab is a simple recess in the wall that indicates the direction of Mecca, towards which Muslims face when they pray. This mihrab replaces the altar found in Christian churches. Nearby is the mimbar, or pulpit, where the preacher delivers the sermon.
In St. Sophia, as in many mosques, the preacher still climbs the pulpit with sword in hand. The sword is a symbol of Islam’s strength, and a flag is hung out as a symbol of victory and conquest.
The Mosque’s Practical Design Rugs and Troughs
The entire floor of the mosque is covered with Turkish rugs, which are made from the finest materials. These rugs create a comfortable and inviting space for worshipers. The mosque also has wooden troughs placed at intervals of about six or eight feet across the floor. These troughs are made of undressed wood and serve a practical purpose: they help keep the mosque clean and give worshipers a place to leave their shoes before they pray.
The rugs are divided into sections, making it easy for worshipers to find their space and avoid crowding. This system encourages order and respect for the space shared by all.
Rituals of Cleanliness Fountains and Advice
Before entering the mosque to pray, worshipers can use the fountains to perform their ablutions, a ritual cleansing of the hands, face, and feet. There are two large fountains in St. Sophia for this purpose, which are conveniently located for those arriving to worship. Above the fountains, there is an important reminder: “Wash thy sins and not thy face only.” This sensible admonition encourages worshipers to focus on spiritual cleanliness as well as physical cleanliness.
A Place of Spiritual Beauty
St. Sophia’s design, with its simple beauty, calming atmosphere, and practical elements, creates a perfect environment for worship and reflection. It may not have the same extravagant decorations as other famous churches, but its simplicity gives it a timeless and profound beauty that continues to inspire all who visit.
