Isidorus of Miletus
- Born:
- c. 475 AD, Miletus, Asia Minor (present-day Turkey)
- Died:
- c. 565 AD
- Nationality:
- Byzantine Greek
- Profession(s):
- Architect, Mathematician
Early Life and Education
- Isidorus of Miletus received education in Alexandria and Athens.
- He was a skilled mathematician and physicist before focusing on architecture.
Career and Major Achievements
- Appointed by Byzantine Emperor Justinian I to design and construct the Hagia Sophia in Constantinople (present-day Istanbul).
- Isidorus worked alongside Anthemius of Tralles on the Hagia Sophia project.
- The Hagia Sophia was rebuilt in just five years after the original church was destroyed in the Nika riots of 532 AD.
- Taught stereometry and physics.
Notable Works
- Hagia Sophia: The most significant project, considered a masterpiece of Byzantine architecture, featuring a massive dome and innovative structural design.
Legacy and Impact
Isidorus of Miletus left a lasting legacy as one of the most important architects of the Byzantine era. His innovative designs, particularly the Hagia Sophia, influenced the development of architecture for centuries. Learning about figures like Isidorus of Miletus' biography for kids can inspire future generations of architects and engineers.