The Weeping Column of Hagia Sophia: Legend & How to Find It

The Weeping Column is a marble pillar in the northwest of Hagia Sophia’s main hall, sheathed in copper and pierced by a small hole worn smooth by a thousand years of visitors. Also known as the Wishing Column or the Sweating Column, it is one of the building’s most touched — and most photographed — spots.

The legend

The story goes that the column is perpetually damp, and that the moisture has healing power. Tradition says you should place your thumb in the hole, turn your hand a full circle keeping contact with the marble, and if your thumb comes out moist, your wish — often a wish for health — will be granted. The column is also linked to St. Gregory the Miracle-Worker, who is said to have appeared here, which is why it is sometimes called the Column of St. Gregory.

Why is it damp?

There’s no magic required for the moisture: the column stands over what was once a source of groundwater, and the porous marble draws it up — hence “sweating.” Whatever the cause, the effect is real enough that the bronze plate around the hole has been polished bright by centuries of thumbs.

How to find it

Face the apse (the semi-dome at the far end from the entrance), then look to the left side of the main hall, near the northwest corner. The column is easy to spot — it’s the one with a queue of people taking turns at a brass-lined opening at about waist height. It takes two minutes and is a fun, harmless bit of ritual on any visit.

While you’re looking up from here, you’re also well placed to admire the dome and the mosaics. Planning your route? See how long you need, and book your entry to skip the ticket queue.