Restoration scandal at Hagia Sophia: Trucks driven into 1,500-year-old structure

Hagia Sophia Mosque is considered one of Turkey's most important cultural heritage sites, with a history spanning nearly 1,500 years. In recent months, it was announced that a comprehensive restoration process would begin to make the structure safer and more orderly.

Minister of Culture and Tourism Mehmet Nuri Ersoy stated in an announcement in April that restoration work would continue without interrupting worship and that the main dome would be reinforced against earthquakes.

AN UNACCEPTABLE SCANDAL DURING RESTORATION

However, footage that emerged during the restoration revealed a major scandal. It was documented that high-tonnage trucks were driven onto the historic floor of Hagia Sophia Mosque.

The footage, which highlights that the use of trucks inside the 1,500-year-old structure is unacceptable, has caused a widespread reaction on social media. The trucks were parked on the mosque's floor, a situation that points to negligence that could seriously damage the historic structure.

CRANES AND NEGLIGENCE DOCUMENTED

Footage of cranes used during the restoration at the entrance known as the Imperial Gate of Hagia Sophia also serves as another example of negligence that could harm the historic heritage. While the work carried out in this section of the structure should have been done with extreme care to avoid damaging the original texture of the historic building, the high-tonnage machinery and cranes used have raised questions about the quality of the restoration.

FOOTAGE DRAWS BACKLASH ON SOCIAL MEDIA

The footage spread rapidly on social media, with users stating that this intervention in the historic heritage is unacceptable. Such negligence in the restoration of a structure as significant as Hagia Sophia has sparked a major public debate. So far, the relevant authorities have not made any statement regarding the matter.

News Source: 12punto