Experts warn Istanbul's iconic Hagia Sophia at risk as ancient gate damaged
The Hagia Sophia's damaged 1,400-year-old imperial gate could be the first of many disasters in the world heritage site due to neglect.
One of Turkey's most significant historical artifacts, the Hagia Sophia, has been vandalized.
The plight of the Hagia Sophia, which was converted to a mosque in July 2020, is back in the news with reports that the 1,400-year-old imperial gate of the edifice was vandalized. In April, the Turkish Union of Art History posted photos of the damage. The image of the vandalized oak door, warn observers, means that the international community’s repeated urging that the iconic building be used as an “intercultural space” have fallen on deaf ears.
Serif Yasar, head of the Turkish Union of Art History, warned that the failure to protect the ancient door is a sign of danger to come. “The dome of the Hagia Sophia might collapse on the worshippers by 2050” if no precautions were taken.
Since July 2020, thousands have gathered at the iconic building five times a day for prayers. According to Arie Amaya-Akkermans, a writer and critic based in Istanbul, part of the problem is the transfer of the management of the edifice.
