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Wonder Hagia Sophia view inside.. The Hagia Sophia ~Turkish: Ayasofya, Ayasofya Camii or Ayasofya Müzesi~ was actually a patriarchal Basilica that has been considered to be an embodiment of Byzantine architecture and also had the distinction of remaining the largest cathedral in the world until 1520. Built on the orders of the Byzantine Emperor Justinian, its interiors were richly decorated with artistic mosaics depicting various religious scenes and were supported by massive marble pillars.