Magnaura

[2] It was situated to the east of the Augustaion, close to the Hagia Sophia, and next to the Chalke Gate[3] and has often equated by scholars with the building that housed the Senate.

[5] However, others dispute this assertion on the grounds that it arises from an incorrect conflation of the University of Constantinople with the later palace school (ekpaideutērion) housed at the Magnaura that was founded by caesar Bardas in the mid-9th century.

[8] In his description of the area, Procopius tells of a large marble gateway that led to a peristyle courtyard which stood in front of the Magnaura.

[4] The structure of the Magnaura is thought to have followed a basilican plan with two side aisles supporting galleries and multiple apses at its eastern end.

[3] One of the most remarked upon features in this building was the so-called Throne of Solomon situated in its central apse, which is said to have been surrounded by automata in the form of trees, singing birds, and roaring lions that awed and delighted visitors.