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| The '''Ayasofya museum''' is a former ] and ] located in the city of ] in ]. It dates back to the ] when Trabzon was part of the ]. It is one of the best sites in the area that dates back to a time before ] rule. | The '''Ayasofya museum''' is a former ] and ] located in the city of ] in ]. It dates back to the ] when Trabzon was part of the ]. It is one of the best sites in the area that dates back to a time before ] rule. | ||
Revision as of 12:22, 9 January 2006
The Ayasofya museum is a former church and mosque located in the city of Trabzon in Turkey. It dates back to the 13th century when Trabzon was part of the Empire of Trebizond. It is one of the best sites in the area that dates back to a time before Ottoman rule.
It was built during the reign of Manuel I between 1238-63, and used a church. After Mehmed II invaded the city in 1461 the church was converted into a mosque. During the brief period of the city in Russia's hands during World War I, the site was used by the Russian military as a makeshift hospital and depot. Afterwards it was put back into use as a mosque, until 1964 when it was turned into a museum which it remains to this day. From 1958-64 the site was restored with the help of Edinburgh University and the General Directorate of Foundations.
The architecture showcases the Byzantine influence, being characterised by a high central dome and the four large column arches supporting the weight of the dome and ceiling. The ornamenting and art inside and outside the church reflects the periods of both Byzantine and Ottoman reign. The frescos contain many tales referring the New Testament which are visible throughout the site, and islamic art decorates many of the external stone ornamenting.