Haydarpaşa renovation to be concluded this year

The years-long restoration works at Istanbul's historic Haydarpaşa Train Station are set to be completed this year, including the archaeological site where findings from the excavations will be exhibited, Transport and Infrastructure Minister Abdulkadir Uraloğlu has said.

Inaugurated 116 years ago, this iconic structure has since stood as one of Türkiye's most magnificent landmark edifices.

However, the station suffered grave damage due to a devastating fire on Nov. 28, 2010, resulting in the collapse of its roof and rendering several sections unusable.

Speaking to the press on site on July 3, the minister detailed the restoration works, which have been conducted in two phases.

Completed over three years, the first phase focused on the meticulous restoration of the historic station's roof that sustained the most damage. The second phase included ground improvement works and structural reinforcements aimed at fortifying the building against potential earthquakes.

"We are meticulously restoring the external façade, engaging in conservation efforts that include artistic cleaning to safeguard the integrity of the structure. For the restoration of the station building, we are employing a unique technique using Lefke stone, a type of sandstone specifically sourced from a quarry established for this project," Uraloğlu explained.

He said that all restoration activities will be concluded soon, allowing Haydarpaşa Train Station to be fully operational within the year.

"The historical platforms have been rebuilt, track infrastructure has been completed, ballast and sleepers installed, and 35 percent of the rail laying work has been finalized."

The Haydarpaşa Station precinct is set to host the groundbreaking archaeopark...