Restoration continues to open Hagia Sophia’s underground chambers to visitors

Daily SabahParty-alignedCenterNov 3

Turkish Culture and Tourism Minister Mehmet Nuri Ersoy announced that nearly 9 kilometers of previously hidden tunnels beneath Istanbul’s Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque are being uncovered during major restoration efforts. Approximately 3,000 tons of mud and debris have been removed from the site, revealing historic water channels and underground chambers that offer insights into the city’s past infrastructure. Ersoy described the project as the most comprehensive intervention in the building’s history under the Turkish Republic, noting that reinforcement work is also underway on the main and eastern domes. The minister emphasized that the work follows scientific committee recommendations and aims to preserve the structure’s original features while keeping it accessible to the public. These discoveries highlight the complex historical layers of the site, which was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1985.

Bias read (Center): The article relies exclusively on official statements from the Culture Ministry regarding a heritage preservation project, presenting factual updates on archaeological findings without employing partisan rhetoric or critical framing.

Hurriyet Daily NewsParty-alignedCenterNov 3

Culture and Tourism Minister Mehmet Nuri Ersoy announced that restoration efforts at Istanbul's Hagia Sophia are progressing with the specific goal of making previously inaccessible underground tunnels, chambers, and burial structures available to visitors. The project involves removing approximately 3,000 tons of debris from subterranean areas and reinforcing structural elements, including the main dome and the eastern semi-dome housing religious features. Officials stated that the work aims to preserve the site's historical integrity while revealing insights into ancient water management systems and pre-construction history. Once safety and conservation standards are met, selected underground sections will be opened to the public alongside existing exhibition plans. Additionally, the minister outlined a three-stage strategy to reintroduce Formula 1 racing to Turkey to boost international tourism and economic revenue.

Bias read (Center): The article relies exclusively on official statements regarding heritage preservation and tourism development, presenting factual updates on restoration milestones without employing loaded language or omitting critical counterpoints.