Turkey has begun what a minister has said is the “largest and most comprehensive” restoration and reinforcement effort on the dome of Hagia Sophia.

The restoration of the Hagia Sophia, a historic monument that has seen its share of controversy, is being lauded as the largest and most extensive in its 1,486-year history. Turkish Culture and Tourism Minister Mehmet Nuri Ersoy announced the restoration, which is set to preserve the dome and enhance its earthquake resilience while allowing uninterrupted worship at the site. This comes in the wake of the devastating earthquakes that struck southern Turkey in early 2023, leading to serious discussions about the stability of buildings in Istanbul, given its proximity to fault lines. Relief efforts and international reactions underscore the significance of this historic structure. The Hagia Sophia’s transition from cathedral to mosque and then to museum and back to mosque has been a point of contention, attracting both national pride and international criticism. Critics have raised concerns regarding how changes in its status could affect the preservation of its architectural and artistic treasures. The current restoration plan reportedly emphasizes structural support while maintaining aesthetic integrity, illustrating a commitment to both preservation and the significance of the Hagia Sophia to Turkey's cultural identity amidst continuing global scrutiny.