When I arrived in Sultanhamet, Istanbul and saw in quick succession the Hippodrome, with the Serpent Column, the Obelisk of Theodosius, the Blue Mosque in all it’s glory, and then, then Hagia Sophia, I was overcome. I–being a long-standing architecture and art history nerd–couldn’t actually believe that I was standing in front of a building that I had dreamed about visiting since childhood. The last time I felt that sense of awe and wonder was when, five years earlier, I stumbled up the Via della Concilazione into the setting sun to see St. Peter’s in Rome for the very first time. It brought me to tears.
Also, a personal note: last week was big for me and my family. I started my new job, and we added a new dog to our house! So, in addition to my long-standing co-pilot Rogue (9-year old beagle that I adopted when she was two-months old, on the right), who has appeared a few times on this blog, I would like to introduce our new baby: Lupo! He’s 7-ish (or at least that’s what the Humane Society thought) and he is also a righteous co-pilot.
Wowsers… lovely photo. And I love your little copilots! Adorable…
Thank you!!
I would have cried too! =)
It’s really, really awe-inspiring. I have seen a lot of really impressive stuff, but Hagia Sophia was some next-level shit.
I’ve only cried once when looking at something great during my travels. That was when I saw my mom cry upon seeing the Grand Canyon. It’ amazing how we are touched by things around us.
Now I am inspired to visit the Hagia Sofia. Thanks for posting. =)
You’re SO welcome! There’s not much greater than being amazed by the world. Happy travels!
Isn’t it gorgeous !
Truly stunning!
Great pic, and the dogs are sooooo cute. I love dogs.
Thanks! Me too!
Love your dogs! SO adorable!
Thanks!
[…] my next post), this thing was rock-star solid. But let’s just savor these photos! Because if the outside can bring me to tears, the inside made me weak in the knees! Oh centrally planned architecture, be still my […]
I didn’t quite cry but I was totally choked up. The interior and atmosphere are unbelievably moving.
Absolutely! There are few buildings who have moved me quite like the Hagia Sophia– it’s really a special place! Thanks for reading!