Concerns Mount as Hagia Sophia Faces Dome Restoration

09:14 11/12/2024 - Πηγή: iEfimerida

The Hagia Sophia, the iconic Istanbul landmark and former Byzantine cathedral, is set for a controversial dome restoration, sparking concerns about the preservation of this architectural masterpiece.

Turkish authorities announced plans to dismantle part of the dome in spring 2024 to carry out the work, raising alarm bells among international observers.

Originally built as a Christian basilica in 537 AD, the Hagia

Sophia was converted into a mosque in 1453 after the Ottoman conquest of Constantinople.

It served as a museum from 1935 until 2020, when it was reconverted into a mosque under President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, a move that drew widespread criticism.

Professor Ahmet Güleç, a member of the restoration committee, explained that the work is necessary to stabilize the dome and protect it from the elements.

He emphasized that the restoration will be carried out carefully, with a protective roof installed to shield the mosaics during the process.

However, the announcement has reignited concerns about the impact of the Hagia Sophia's conversion back into a mosque.

Critics worry that the building's unique historical and cultural significance is being compromised, and that its accessibility to visitors may be restricted.

As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Hagia Sophia holds immense value for both Christians and Muslims.

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