Restoration of the Main Dome of Hagia Sophia Begins in Istanbul

Restoration works on the main dome of Hagia Sophia, one of the most significant architectural landmarks in the world, have begun in Istanbul. Despite the restoration, the temple will remain accessible to worshippers.

According to the Turkish publication Hürriyet, the Minister of Culture and Tourism of Turkey, Mehmet Nuri Ersoy, stated that the restoration of the main dome would be the largest in history.

“We are protecting our history and passing Hagia Sophia down to future generations. The dome will be reinforced against earthquakes, while we will carefully preserve its authenticity,” the minister said.

The restoration will mostly be carried out externally to preserve the Byzantine mosaics inside. The lead cladding will also be replaced, and the supporting structures will be reinforced.

A tower crane, 41 meters high, will be installed to carry out work on the dome and facades. Additionally, the restoration of several objects within the complex, such as the Sultan’s mausoleums and the children’s school, has already been completed. The restoration work is being conducted under the supervision of a scientific council.

To accurately monitor the building’s condition, Hagia Sophia has been digitized in 3D format, which will allow structural risks to be analyzed and predict its behavior during earthquakes.

It is known that in the summer of 2020, Hagia Sophia was converted from a museum to a mosque, and the entrance to the temple became free for visitors.

Earlier, we reported that a “blessing” ceremony was held at the National Preserve «Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra,» marking the installation of the final restored cross on the Trinity Over-the-Gate Church, conducted by the «abbot» of the Holy Dormition Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra, Avraamiy.