Watch Hagia Sophia: The Jewel of Christendom

Hagia Sophia: The Jewel of Christendom is a documentary film that tells the story of one of the most magnificent and important buildings in the world, the Hagia Sophia. The movie is narrated by Dr. William J. Neidinger, a professor of art history at Florida State University, who takes us on a journey to discover the secrets and the history behind the Hagia Sophia, a building that has been standing for more than a thousand years.

The film starts by introducing us to the Hagia Sophia, a remarkable structure located in Istanbul, formerly known as Constantinople, which was the capital of the Byzantine Empire. The Hagia Sophia was built in the 6th century AD during the reign of Emperor Justinian, and it was the largest cathedral in the world at the time.

Dr. Neidinger explains how the Hagia Sophia was built by the most skilled architects and builders of the era, using cutting-edge technology and engineering that made it possible to build such a massive structure. He takes us on a tour of the building's interior, pointing out the intricate mosaics, the massive dome, and the various architectural features that make the Hagia Sophia so unique.

The film then delves into the history of Constantinople, exploring the city's role as a center of trade, culture, and religion. We learn about the conflict between the Byzantine Empire and the Ottoman Empire, which led to the eventual conquest of Constantinople by the Ottomans in 1453.

At this point, the focus of the film shifts to the Hagia Sophia's transformation from a Christian cathedral to a Muslim mosque. Dr. Neidinger describes how the Ottomans converted the building into a mosque, adding minarets and removing Christian symbols and artwork from the interior. He also discusses the challenges that the Ottomans faced in adapting the building for Islamic worship, such as the need to create spaces for prayer and cover the Christian mosaics.

The documentary then takes us through the turbulent history of Istanbul during the Ottoman era, including the reign of Suleiman the Magnificent and the construction of the Topkapi Palace. We also learn about the various cultural influences that shaped Ottoman art and architecture during this era.

In the final section of the film, Dr. Neidinger discusses the challenges that the Hagia Sophia faces today. He talks about the recent decision by the Turkish government to convert the building back into a mosque, and the controversy surrounding this decision. He also touches on the importance of preserving historical landmarks such as the Hagia Sophia, and the role that these buildings play in telling the story of our shared cultural heritage.

Overall, Hagia Sophia: The Jewel of Christendom is a fascinating and informative documentary that delves into the history and significance of one of the most important buildings in the world. Dr. Neidinger's expert narration and insightful commentary make this film a must-see for anyone interested in art, history, or culture.

Hagia Sophia: The Jewel of Christendom is a documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 16 minutes.