A Literary and Structural Analysis of the First Dome on Justinian's Hagia Sophia, Constantinople

摘要: Many scholars have speculated on the shape of first great dome Justinian9s Hagia Sophia, which was demolished in 558 after a partial collapse year before. Rowland Mainstone has suggested that it shallow structure, anchored directly to upper cornice at culmination pendentives. His basis for assuming this profile is John Malalas9s testimony new constructed 20 feet higher than dome, would thereby been full two-fifths shallower its replacement. By accepting almost too eagerly, modern subvert eyewitness account Procopius9s The Buildings, makes clear reference "rounded structure" resting main arches and standing below itself. Such according Procopius contain dome9s windows, can only be interpreted as drum. refers identical terms central Church Holy Apostles Constantinople, taking pains draw parallel here with drum Sophia. Both churches, he attests, same "circular upon penetrated by windows. A later literary source confirms did indeed drums under five domes, most prominently dome. If St. Sophia9s accommodated height provided sufficient headroom persons walking cornice, might well ten high or more. 20-foot differential, if reliable place, not violated hypothesis; could refer simply relative depths second while ignoring lesser change elevation implied raising first,