At Church
Byzantine ecclesiastical interiors are rich in opulence, where every detail is designed to captivate the senses. The vibrant mosaics, made from gold, glass, and precious stones, shimmer in the dim light, creating an ethereal glow that dazzles the eyes. The air is often thick with the scent of incense, its aromatic smoke curling through the space and evoking a sense of divine presence. Rich fabrics, such as silk and velvet, drape the walls and furnishings, offering a tactile experience of luxury that contrasts with the cool, stone floors. The hum of chanting and the reverberation of sacred music fill the air, heightening the spiritual atmosphere and engaging the ear in a transcendent melody that echoes through the grand, vaulted chambers. The objects in this gallery are but some of the riches that might be found within a Byzantine church.
—Joseph R. Kopta