During the Nika Revolt (11-18 January 532 AD) Hagia Sophia was destroyed by a fire. Immediately after suppressing the revolt Justinian decided to rebuild the church on the ruins of the basilica of Constantius. Forty days later the foundations were set and five years later, on December 27th 537, the inauguration of the church was made by Patriarch Minas. Justinian himself exclaimed in admiration: "Solomon, I've surpassed you".