The Hagia Sophia, Istanbul’s 1,500-year-old marvel, is embarking on its most ambitious renovation yet. Announced by Türkiye’s culture and tourism minister, Mehmet Nuri Ersoy, the project aims to reinforce the dome against earthquakes while meticulously preserving its original Byzantine splendor.
Constructed under Emperor Justinian I in the 6th century, this UNESCO World Heritage site has lived many lives: a Greek Orthodox basilica, an Ottoman mosque, a museum and, since 2020, a mosque once more. Each chapter left its mark—from intricate mosaics to elegant minarets—making preservation a delicate balancing act.
Leveraging 3D laser scanning and non-invasive seismic isolation technology, preservation experts will strengthen the dome’s foundation with base isolators capable of reducing seismic forces by up to 70%. The multidisciplinary team includes architects, engineers and historians, all collaborating to safeguard both structure and story.
For digital nomads and young travelers, the project promises new immersive experiences: augmented reality tours will map Byzantine mosaics in real time, while virtual workshops will share restoration insights globally. It’s a modern bridge between past and future, echoing the spirit of a globally connected audience.
As restoration begins this spring, Hagia Sophia stands as a testament to human ingenuity and cultural continuity. Its walls have witnessed empire shifts and spiritual transformations; now, bolstered against nature’s forces, it’s set to inspire the next 1,500 years.
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Istanbul's Hagia Sophia sees biggest refurbishment 1,500 year history
cgtn.com
