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[SITUATION] · [QUIET] · [CULTURE]

3 clusters · 14 sources · 39 days · First seen · Last updated

Hagia Sophia restoration and conservation

Overview

The Hagia Sophia in Istanbul is a historical monument representing the architectural intersection of Christian and Islamic history. Originally a Byzantine cathedral commissioned by Emperor Justinian I, it was converted into a mosque following the Ottoman conquest in 1453.

Restoration efforts have progressed into what is described as one of the most extensive projects in the history of the Republic. Current works focus heavily on the dome structures. On the main dome, crews are removing and repairing lead coverings and performing structural reinforcement. To protect the interior mosaics and the structure from seasonal weather, a temporary steel roof covered with flame-retardant grey protective tarpaulin has been installed; this covering was specifically selected to harmonize with the appearance of the original lead.

A 43.5-meter steel platform is being utilized to facilitate mosaic conservation on the main dome. Simultaneously, the project has entered a phase to reinforce the eastern semi-dome, which was identified through structural analysis as a vulnerable point in potential earthquake scenarios. This phase involves installing a steel working platform to allow for structural strengthening and the conservation of mosaics, calligraphy, and marble surfaces. To maintain visual continuity, specialized printed tarpaulins are being used, and a multi-layered floor system protects the 1,500-year-old marble flooring.

The Ministry of Culture and Tourism, overseeing the works via a scientific committee, maintains that religious services and visitor access will continue through temporary arrangements, such as the use of temporary mihrabs and minbars.

Entities

Hagia Sophia · General Directorate of Foundations · Ministry of Culture and Tourism · Anthemius of Tralles · Mehmed II

Timeline

  1. [CULTURE] 2 sources
    Hagia Sophia undergoes major restoration and dome reinforcement

    Restoration and reinforcement works have entered a new phase at Istanbul’s Hagia Sophia, including structural strengthening of the main and eastern domes and mosaic conservation.

  2. [CULTURE] 10 sources
    Hagia Sophia begins structural reinforcement of eastern semi-dome

    Restoration at Hagia Sophia enters a new phase as experts begin structural reinforcement and conservation of the eastern semi-dome to protect the historic site against potential earthquake damage.

  3. [CULTURE] 2 sources
    Hagia Sophia: Architectural intersection of Christianity and Islam

    The Hagia Sophia in Istanbul stands as a historic architectural blend of Byzantine and Ottoman influences, transitioning from a 6th-century cathedral to a mosque.

Sources

ad-hoc-news.de · aksiyon.com.tr · bolgegazetesivan.com · damgagazetesi.com · gazeteabc.com · gazetedamga.com.tr · gzt.com · haber16.com · istanbulgazetesi.com.tr · it-boltwise.de · kitaptansanattan.com · mersinhaber.com · odatv4.com · risalehaber.com

This summary has been updated 2 times: see revision history