Historic domes of Hagia Sophia renovated to protect the landmark from earthquakes

Turkey has launched a new phase of restoration for the nearly 1,500-year-old Hagia Sophia in Istanbul, focusing on enhancing its seismic safety, SFGate reported.

The project will reinforce the main dome and half domes, replace worn lead coverings, and upgrade the steel framework, all while allowing worship to continue uninterrupted. A tower crane has been installed to facilitate material transport for these efforts.

Dr. Mehmet Selim Okten, overseeing the renovations, emphasized that this phase represents the most significant intervention in over 150 years, particularly in light of the recent 7.8 magnitude earthquake that struck southern Turkey.

Built in 537 by Emperor Justinian, Hagia Sophia was converted into a mosque in 1453 and later a museum in 1934. It reopened as a mosque in 2020 following a court ruling. Okten noted that modern, lightweight materials will be used, and the renovation process will be transparent and open to public monitoring. Visitors have expressed support for the preservation efforts.