Hagia Sophia in Istanbul was constructed between 532-537 CE and served as the main basilica of the Byzantine Empire, holding the largest dome in the world until the 15th century. The current structure is nearly square at 269 by 240 feet, with the dome hovering 180 feet above the mosaic floor. It was innovatively decorated with large marble slabs and mosaics, including one depicting Christ over the main dome. Under the rule of Emperor Justinian and a large workforce, the church was completed in just under six years, using materials including bricks, mortar, marble, and columns sourced from other structures.