Church of St. Sophia
Church of St. Sophia, Eastern Orthodox cathedral in Ohrid, North Macedonia
The Church of St. Sophia stands on the shore of Lake Ohrid and features Byzantine architecture with a characteristic domed basilica design. Medieval frescoes cover the interior walls, while the building's sturdy stone structure shapes the waterfront landscape.
The church was built in 1035 on the foundations of a 5th-century Roman church. It served as the seat of the Archbishopric of Ohrid until the 18th century, when its role shifted.
The interior walls display frescoes from the 11th to 14th centuries, showing biblical stories and early depictions of saints Cyril and Clement. These medieval paintings cover the religious narratives that shaped local faith and devotion.
The church is open daily for visitors, with guided tours available in multiple languages to help explain the architectural features and religious significance. Local staff and orientation aids make it easy to navigate and understand the interior spaces.
During Ottoman rule, the church was converted into a mosque, with its frescoes covered by plaster to conform to Islamic traditions. This transformation shows how the building served different religious communities across centuries.
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