Istanbul's Hagia Sophia, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and architectural marvel spanning empires and faiths, has embarked on its most extensive restoration project since its construction in 537 CE. Türkiye's Culture and Tourism Minister Mehmet Nuri Ersoy announced the ambitious effort, emphasizing earthquake-resistant upgrades while preserving the structure's historical integrity.
The landmark's massive dome—once the world's largest—will be reinforced using advanced engineering techniques to withstand seismic activity, addressing growing concerns in this earthquake-prone region. "Every intervention will honor the building's layered history," Ersoy stated, acknowledging its evolution from Byzantine church to Ottoman mosque and modern museum.
Recent decades have seen intense global interest in the Hagia Sophia's shifting identity, particularly after its 2020 reclassification as a mosque. The restoration signals a renewed focus on protecting what historians describe as a "living chronicle of Mediterranean civilization." Project leaders confirm worship activities will continue uninterrupted during renovations, balancing spiritual functions with preservation needs.
As cranes surround the ancient silhouette dominating Istanbul's skyline, the world watches a new chapter unfold for this bridge between eras—one aiming to safeguard its legacy for future generations.
