Restoration underway for minaret at Hagia Sophia

Within the scope of ongoing restoration in Istanbul's landmark Hagia Sophia, a renovation efforts have been launched for a crucial minaret in the structure due to recent discovery of deep cracks.

Steel scaffolding has been installed on the minaret named after Ottoman Sultan Bayezid II in the section of Istanbul's historic mosque overlooking the Topkapı Palace.

Providing information regarding ongoing efforts, Professor Dr. Hasan Fırat Diker, member of the scientific committee for the restoration of Hagia Sophia, stated that the cause of the cracks in the minaret was investigated.

"The restoration started first on the Bayezid II Minaret, as it has the most structural weaknesses among the four minarets of Hagia Sophia. In the first stage, the stones in the minaret will be stripped. Because the cause of the cracks we have already mentioned may be due to earthquake or corrosion," he said.

Noting that each minaret has its own architectural characteristics and therefore they had to apply different restoration methods, Diker said, "The minaret will be restored with the most appropriate intervention possible. Then it will be the turn of the other minarets."

Regarding the future status of the steel scaffolding and the visitor entrance gate, Diker said that these are precautions and temporary.

"This kind of restoration cannot be rushed. Most suitable intervention method will be determined after first understanding the origin of the problem. The scaffolding and the entrance underneath are part of the restoration. After the restoration of the minaret is completed, the scaffolding and the entrance door will be dismantled," he expressed.

Diker explained that the reason for taking the precautions was to avoid risking the safety of...