You can in Paris find a rather recent church – from the 1930’s – inspired, for its interior, by the some 1500 years older Hagia Sophia in Istanbul, considered as the epitome of Byzantine architecture (see photo in white frame).The Paris church, Saint Esprit, is a catholic church, built in concrete and covered by red bricks outside. Tens of artists participated for the interior decoration, rather with frescoes than by mosaics – as in the “original”.
You will be impressed by the specific architecture, the width of the church and the size of the cupola. Some apartments are integrated in the front and backside of the church.
(For those who have asked about my absence: My mother was hospitalized, is OK, but must now leave her flat for a home for elderly people. Looking for a suitable place - which may take some time. I will probably soon return.)
(Thanks for your comments about my b&w photos. Back to colour... and maybe a b&w now and then!)
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