Fifteenth- and Sixteenth-Century Ottoman Narratives on the Hagia Sophia Reconsidered

This paper examines fifteenth- and sixteenth-century Ottoman narratives on the Hagia Sophia. Stefanos Yerasimos analyzed these within the framework of Ottoman imperial consolidation, describing two narrative strands that he associated with distinctive milieus with differing and at times conflicting political views and attitudes concerning the new imperial regime. Building on his work, this paper illustrates the changing political, ideological, and cultural significance of this ancient monument over time and across different social groups. It also explores how textual sources reflected upon building practices during the period.