Extensive Restoration Works Begin on the Dome of Hagia Sophia Amid Earthquake Fears

Turkey’s Ministry of Culture has initiated a new phase in the restoration and structural reinforcement of Hagia Sophia, focusing on seismic strengthening of its historic dome and semi-domes. The works will proceed without interrupting religious services at the site. As part of the project, lead coverings on the external surfaces of the domes will be replaced, the iron skeleton will be upgraded, and lighter modern materials will be utilized. Mehmet Selim Okten, an associate professor at Mimar Sinan University and a member of the scientific council overseeing the project, stated that these efforts represent the most comprehensive structural intervention in 150 years. A crane will be installed on the eastern facade for material transport to higher sections, and a protective framework will ensure worker safety while analyzing historical damage caused by fires and past earthquakes. Minister of Culture and Tourism Mehmet Nuri Ersoy emphasized that the work aims to preserve the interior mosaics while protecting the structure from weather conditions. Work is also ongoing on one of the four minarets surrounding Hagia Sophia, where cracks were detected last year.