Hagia Sophia (Saint Sophia Church) and more of Istanbul.

Tonight we assist our friend Dennis as he assembles his almost seaworthy dinghy. Dennis bought this vessel on his way down from Denmark, via Poland and the Black Sea. Unfortunately, a strong wind tore out the bow cleat and Dennis' dinghy is no more. Oh well, such is life on the seas. Prior to this photo, we had a nice dinner on board Jungle, compliments of the admiral.

Today we visit the Hagia Sophia (hi-ya sophia) also Aya Sofia or St. Sophia. This is considered a true ancient wonder and definitely is so from an architectural standpoint. First dedicated in 360 AD, in then Constantinople, it accidentally burnt down in the same century. Rebuilt and dedicated in 415 AD, it was burnt down in a riot some 100 years later. This third revision has stood since 537 AD and took only 6 years to build.

An inside view of the impressive ceiling and pillars.

The center dome is an architectural marvel based on sheer size and lack of supporting pillars. Rather unique in the world. Only 3 other cathedrals in the world have larger domes. This one is 65 meters (200+) feet across.

We see the intricate tilework on the dome.

An impressive main floor.

The sad story to the Hagia Sofia is the tile artwork, paintings and other relics have been removed.

When Turkey moved from the Christian Era to the Muslim Era the church was converted into a mosque, all Christian references were removed, with hammer and chisel.

And Islamic references installed.

Including the stain glass windows. It's tough to see here but they are classic stained glass windows with Islamic scripture installed over.

And the pulpit for the Imam.

This is an example of some of the 6th century tilework that was removed from the church.

Here is a Christian relic that escaped destruction.

In 1935 it was changed again, from a mosque into a museum by then president Ataturk.

Still a beautiful place.

With reminders from all eras.

Here is a tiled art piece that depicts Constantine on the right showing his model of Constantinople to Virgin Mary with Baby Jesus. Emperor Justinianus is on the left with his model of the Hagia Sophia. I guess they got the green light.

Outside, we see the Blue Mosque off in the distance.

A look from another angle at the Hagia Sophia.

And a final look.

Then we are off to the Pera Palace. It's not a palace but a hotel built by the owner of the Orient Express Railway, which holds the famous Orient Bar. Ernest Hemmingway tipped a few whiskeys here. Agatha Christie is rumored to have stayed here and made this the basis of her book, Murder on the Orient Express. This point is up for debate.

It also has the now famous Orient Terrace.

Jenée Fraine is rumored to have eaten there.

With her husband Jim. They were rumored to have a Turkish Pizza and two Efes beers. Pure conjecture.

We took the road less traveled back to the ferry. This may be considered a seedier part of town, but was still enjoyable with all the locals kicking back and taking it easy. We've found nothing to dislike about Istanbul, with the possible exception of the traffic. Good thing we're not driving.