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The Splendor of Hagia Sophia with Dr. Thomas F Madden

The Splendor of Hagia Sophia with Dr. Thomas F Madden


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Can't make this time? A video recording will be sent to all participants after the seminar.

Magnificent Hagia Sophia has burst into the news as President Erdogan of Turkey has ordered its transformation into a mosque. This conversation will explore the fifteen-century history of this structure of guide participants through its treasures.
The extraordinary building in modern Istanbul was constructed fifteen centuries ago as the greatest church, indeed, the greatest building in the Western world. For nine centuries it was a Christian cathedral, for five centuries a Muslim mosque, and for nearly one century a museum open to all. Now its future is threatened by religious strife and Turkish politics.
This Conversation will guide participants through the long history of this remarkable monument, from its construction by Emperor Justinian to its ransacking by Crusaders to its capture by Sultan Mehmed II to its meticulous restoration in the modern world. Participants will also have the opportunity to experience the beauty of Hagia Sophia's dome, arches, and exquisite mosaics with explanations from a scholar, Dr. Thomas F. Madden, who has studied and written on the city and its monuments for more than three decades.

This conversation is suitable for all ages.

90 minutes, including a 30 minute Q&A.

Customer Reviews

Based on 31 reviews
97%
(30)
3%
(1)
0%
(0)
0%
(0)
0%
(0)
D
D.B. (Cheyenne, US)
Hagia Sophia

Historical and cultural history of the great church/mosque

N
Nancy (Victoria, CA)

This was truly world-class. Dr. Madden has written numerous book and it was true joy to listen to his presentation.

D
Dori (St. Catharines, CA)
Excellent presentation

This was an excellent presentation, well researched and well presented. I would certainly recommend it to anyone!

n
norma s. (Houston, US)
The Hagia Sofia

I am now one of Dr. Madden's groupies. Currently I am enrolled in his course on the Crusades which spurred me to take this one. He is scholarly without being off putting, very personable, and throws in trivia and gossip along with facts to hold your interest. Because he discusses the good, bad and ugly of historical personalities and events he holds your interest and has you chuckling at his asides which makes him an excellent instructor.

S
Susan Salley (Nashville, US)
Excellent tour, made me want to know more

Dr. Madden's presentation was the best virtual experience of an onsite visit and a favorite class. I enjoyed it so much that I immediately ordered his book on Instanbul...and the Crusades as well.

Customer Reviews

Based on 31 reviews
97%
(30)
3%
(1)
0%
(0)
0%
(0)
0%
(0)
D
D.B. (Cheyenne, US)
Hagia Sophia

Historical and cultural history of the great church/mosque

N
Nancy (Victoria, CA)

This was truly world-class. Dr. Madden has written numerous book and it was true joy to listen to his presentation.

D
Dori (St. Catharines, CA)
Excellent presentation

This was an excellent presentation, well researched and well presented. I would certainly recommend it to anyone!

n
norma s. (Houston, US)
The Hagia Sofia

I am now one of Dr. Madden's groupies. Currently I am enrolled in his course on the Crusades which spurred me to take this one. He is scholarly without being off putting, very personable, and throws in trivia and gossip along with facts to hold your interest. Because he discusses the good, bad and ugly of historical personalities and events he holds your interest and has you chuckling at his asides which makes him an excellent instructor.

S
Susan Salley (Nashville, US)
Excellent tour, made me want to know more

Dr. Madden's presentation was the best virtual experience of an onsite visit and a favorite class. I enjoyed it so much that I immediately ordered his book on Instanbul...and the Crusades as well.