Fetih Mosque restoration uncovers historical Jesus Christ fresco

Restoration work at the Fetih Mosque, also known as the Hagia Sophia of Erzurum, has revealed a historical fresco of Jesus Christ. The artwork, located in the center of the middle nave's ceiling, depicts Jesus as "Pantokrator" alongside the four Evangelists: Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John.

Originally built in the mid-1850s as a Greek Orthodox church, the three-aisled basilical structure was converted into a mosque in 1997. The fresco had been covered for many years prior to the recent restoration efforts.

The restoration project, which included earthquake strengthening, drainage work, and structural repairs, was carried out under the supervision of the Erzurum Regional Directorate of Monuments. To accommodate religious services, a special curtain system has been installed to cover the fresco during prayer times, while it remains visible to visitors during other hours.