The Pantheon vs Hagia Sophia
...g to the entrance blind the public from viewing much of the domed rotunda. Once past the entrance, the interior of the Pantheon exceeds expectations with it’s massive dome structure that spans one hundred and forty two feet. This span was not matched until Brunelleschi’s dome at the Florence Cathedral in 1420. In the center of the dome lies a oculus. A means of light and inspiration, the oculus is the only form of natural light in the building not considering the doors. Obviously, the Hagia Sophia is considerably different in many structural and decorative ways. Mainly, pedestrians and tourist are plainly able to spot this monument. Also known as the Great Church, this architectural treasure is strikingly bigger than the Pantheon. The Hagia Sophia, most defiantly, contrasts with that of the simplicity of the Pantheon with it’s four massive minarets and warm exterior. The light also provides a different value. Unlike the Pantheon, the Great Church is lit through windows lining the bottom of the dome giving the effect of infinite space. Though its space might seem infinite, the capacity of the dome is not. Though it is supported by sturdy barrel vaults aligned with four main buttresses, from the time it was first constructed until ...