The underground structures of Hagia Sophia, which have been neglected, are being cleaned and opened for visitation

The underground tunnels, vaults, corridors, and the three-chamber underground tomb of Hagia Sophia, which is among the wonderful works of the world, are planned to be cleaned and opened for visitation.

Built in 537 by Emperor Justinian I, Hagia Sophia was considered the religious and cultural center of the Byzantine Empire for many years, as well as the largest and most magnificent cathedral in the world.

In 1453, following the conquest of Istanbul by Fatih Sultan Mehmet, Hagia Sophia was converted into a mosque and opened as a museum in 1935.

In 2020, Hagia Sophia was reopened for worship as a mosque, and its name became Ayasofya-i Kebir Cami-i Şerifi.

The cleaning and restoration works are being carried out by the General Directorate of Foundations.

Prof. Dr. Hasan Fırat Diker, a member of the Hagia Sophia Scientific Committee, stated that there are underground structures surrounding Hagia Sophia, approximately one kilometer long, which include tunnels, vaults, and a tomb. He mentioned that all these structures will be cleaned as part of a project planned to last one year.

Diker expressed that the works will attract the attention of both the Turkish and global public, stating to an AA reporter: “With this project, it is very meaningful and valuable that a portion of the existing spaces will be made accessible for visitation, and that the findings within, after being carefully evaluated under the supervision of the archaeological structures of the Hagia Sophia Museum, will shed light on the history of Istanbul.”

Diker, the sections located beneath the portico courtyard are as old as Hagia Sophia, approximately 1,500 years, and emphasized that the burial area is even older than the existing structure. He stated, “I believe that cleaning these underground structures is very important for the comfort of Hagia Sophia’s current climate control, allowing for better air circulation. This will be a much more comprehensive and long-term project than those conducted previously. Cleaning the underground structures of such an important monument as Hagia Sophia will provide new benefits to Istanbul. The renewed focus on our cultural heritage will lead to an increase in interest and affection for Hagia Sophia.”

Cover Photo: Mücahit Türetken