These pictures are from the Topkopi Palace overlooking Istanbul. Note the mixture of old and new. It was really impressive.
On to Hagia Sophia. The masterfully constructed cathedral that stood for over 1,000 years unmatched by any other architectural structure. It was dedicated to Holy Wisdom.
The entrance area has a lot of history lying around. Note the stones from the original structure in the picture below right.
Justinian built the massive Hagia Sophia utilizing Roman techniques and technology that defied builders for hundreds of years. The building became a Holy symbol in the Eastern Church.
The maintenance of the Hagia Sophia has always cost vast sums. Even today you can witness the huge maintenance projects going on in the building.
When we got through the tour of the building, several folks had to sit and rest.