A Journey into Byzantine Architecture: St. Sophia

On February 20, 2025, a fascinating webinar organized by “Dialoghi in Architettura” was held with the participation of architects, engineers and enthusiasts from all over the world. Prof. Riccardo Porreca, as international coordinator, explained that one of the purposes of “Dialoghi in Architettura” is to network among professionals, to share experiences to each other and to bring out how in the relationships between people and spaces, beauty and new forms of appropriation of spaces can be generated. 

This meeting, the first in a series of webinars curated by architect Alessandro Perugini, aims to provide a critical approach to some iconic works of Mediterranean architecture, contextualizing them in historical and cultural processes, revealing content that goes far beyond the purely architectural aspect.

The first event featured Antonio Sotillo, a Spanish architect with a long career in renovation building in Madrid.

Antonio led participants on a journey through the history and architecture of Hagia Sophia, Istanbul’s magnificent basilica. He explored the interior spaces, construction techniques and cultural influences that contributed to its construction. Special attention was paid to the central dome, precious marbles and golden mosaics that adorn the basilica.

Structural challenges faced during construction have deepened as well as the subsequent reconstruction due to earthquakes.

Another central theme of the webinar was the symbolism and iconology of St. Sophia, with a focus on the meaning of spatial forms and the representation of the mystery of the Incarnate Word. The speaker emphasized how Byzantine architecture emerges from a long cultural and building tradition, influenced by millennia of history and cultural exchanges in the Mediterranean and the Middle East.

The meeting concluded with a question-and-answer session, during which participants were able to further explore the topics discussed and share their reflections.

Invitation to the Next Meeting

Don’t miss the opportunity to attend the next webinar, which will be held on March 20, 2025. Antonio will continue his fascinating journey into Byzantine architecture, exploring new aspects and details of St. Sophia. To stay updated and receive more information, you can contact the “Dialoghi in Architettura” secretariat at the email address: segr.architettura@focolare.org.

We look forward to seeing you to continue this journey together into the beauty and history of architecture!

“Dialoghi in Architettura” is an international cultural initiative, expression of New Humanity NGO, promoted by a network of teachers, academics, researchers, and professionals working in the field of architecture.

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