Turkey advances major historical site restorations

Turkey's Ministry of Culture and Tourism is overseeing several major restoration and sustainability projects across the country's historical sites.

At the Hagia Sophia (Ayasofya-i Kebir Camii Şerifi), a massive four-stage restoration is underway. Minister Mehmet Nuri Ersoy reported that three stages have been completed, including work on the southern courtyard tombs, the muvakkithane, and the sıbyan mektebi. The second stage, which focuses on the minarets, main dome, and mosaics, is currently active. This includes structural reinforcement of the northeast minaret using stainless steel plates and rods to improve earthquake resistance. To protect internal mosaics, dome reinforcement is being conducted from the exterior.

In Muğla's Seydikemer district, the restoration of the Tlos Ancient City theater has been completed. The site has implemented a pioneering solar power plant (GES) project, which will provide renewable energy for nighttime lighting, allowing for extended evening visits.

Other regional projects include the restoration of the historic Kayalık Mosque in Denizli's Pamukkale district, with a contract exceeding 12 million TL, and ongoing structural reinforcement efforts at the 800-year-old Sivas Ulu Camii.