TRThe comprehensive restoration of the Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque in Istanbul is nearing completion, with three of the four planned stages already finished. Culture and Tourism Minister Mehmet Nuri Ersoy confirmed the progress during a visit to the site, highlighting efforts to preserve the historic structure. The second phase involves delicate work on the minarets, main dome, semi-domes, and mosaics, including structural reinforcements and removal of cement-based plaster. Restoration efforts include repairing tomb areas, restoring the muvakkithane (timekeeping room), and installing a bird deterrent system. Structural analyses guided the removal of parts of the northeastern minaret, with stainless steel reinforcements added for earthquake resistance. The main dome will be strengthened from the exterior to avoid damaging the mosaic-covered interior.
Bias read (Center): The article provides a factual account of the ongoing restoration of the Hagia Sophia, focusing on technical aspects such as structural analysis, restoration phases, and specific engineering measures. It quotes the Culture and Tourism Minister but does not present any overtly biased language, one-si
