Urn 1

View of one of the two lustration urns that are located at the western end of the nave of the Hagia Sophia.  These are carved of solid marble and are estimated to hold 330 gallons [1,250 liters] of water.  They date to the late Roman or early Byzantine period (ca. A.D. 350).  The lid is more recent.  Note the small faucet on the lower right side.  This would be opened as the Muslim faithful would ritually wash prior to prayers.  On the lower right, holes of the drain are visible.

For a view of the other urn Click Here .

For a brief description of the Hagia Sophia Click Here .