The Antiquities of Constantinople / With a Description of Its Situation, the Conveniencies of Its Port, Its Publick Buildings, the Statuary, Sculpture, Architecture, and Other Curiosities of That City

by Pierre Gilles

’Twas thought beyond the Reach of human Power

To roof at Top my widely gaping Walls.

But young Ætherius, ancient in his Art,

This Building finish’d, and an Offering made

To our good Emperor.

Not Italy, with all its Glory shews

A Structure so magnificent and great;

Not the proud Capitol of ancient Rome

With all its gilded Roofs can rival me.

The costly Galleries of Pergamus,