Main Dome

Massive 6th-century dome that transformed sacred architecture.

Completed in 537 AD, the central dome of Hagia Sophia is one of the most influential architectural features in world history. Measuring about 31 meters across and rising over 55 meters high, it appears to float thanks to a ring of 40 windows at its base. At the time, its engineering was revolutionary and set the standard for domes across both Christian and Islamic architecture. Today, standing beneath it, visitors often feel humbled by its vast, glowing presence and architectural brilliance.