What does "Hagia Sophia" translate to in English?

Prepare for the CLEP Western Civilization 1 Test with our interactive quizzes and insightful explanations. Boost your readiness with well-designed questions and essential historical insights!

The term "Hagia Sophia" translates to "Church of the Holy Wisdom" in English. This iconic structure, originally built as a cathedral in Constantinople (modern-day Istanbul), was constructed in the 6th century under the Byzantine Emperor Justinian I. It was named to honor the Christian concept of divine wisdom, representing both a physical and spiritual presence in the context of Orthodox Christianity.

The name is derived from "Hagia," meaning "holy," and "Sophia," meaning "wisdom." The title reflects the architectural grandeur and liturgical significance the building held as a center of Christian worship for nearly a thousand years. It later became a mosque after the Ottoman conquest in 1453 and is now a museum, but its original designation as a church celebrating divine wisdom remains central to its historical identity.

Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy