ABSTRACT
This chapter explores the sixth-century illumination of Hagia Sophia based on the combined evidence from the architectural structure as originally intended and from the building's artificial lighting installations. The phenomenon of light, as will be shown, is at the very heart of the architectural design, constituting a crucial architectural and aesthetic component. Discussion of the innovative and dynamic character of Hagia Sophia's sixth-century design must begin with the history of the building and a survey of the structural alterations the building underwent over the centuries. The innovative character of Anthemiu's and Isodoru's design emerges more clearly when considering the local traditions and developments in church architecture preceding Hagia Sophia's construction in the sixth century. The Golden Octagon of Antioch is the earliest known centralised building specifically designed as a regular congregational church. This inner octagonal core was enveloped by many chambers and exedras on both the lower and upper levels.
