3 thousand tons of mud were removed from under Hagia Sophia: Secret tunnels are being brought to light

Minister of Culture and Tourism Mehmet Nuri Ersoy answered the questions of the press members within the scope of the Antalya Culture Road Festival and made important statements about the restoration, conservation and strengthening works carried out in Hagia Sophia.

Ersoy stated that the process was described by the members of the scientific committee as the most comprehensive intervention carried out since the time of Mimar Sinan.

Emphasizing that the restoration works are continuing without interrupting worship and visits, Ersoy noted that in addition to the main dome, strengthening steps have also begun in the semi-dome in the eastern section, where the mihrab and pulpit are located. It was stated that the work was carried out meticulously in line with the opinions of the scientific committee, the Preservation Board and the universities, and a sensitive engineering process was applied to preserve the original architectural structure.

Stating that research continues uninterrupted in the historical texture of Hagia Sophia under the ground, Minister Ersoy stated that approximately 3 thousand tons of mud and rubble have been removed in the works carried out so far. Stating that historical tunnels, water channels and cellars were examined one by one, Ersoy said:

"These structures also provide important information about the historical water management and infrastructure of Istanbul. We are investigating underground systems that have functions such as rainwater drainage and water distribution. Some sections are large enough for people to pass through. Hagia Sophia's underground is at least as interesting as its superstructure."

Noting that new places are being reached as we progress, Minister Ersoy stated that the underground infrastructure systems are protected with a holistic approach and said, "We will also enable the recognition of the historical layers of Hagia Sophia that cannot be seen today. We are protecting the trust of Fatih, from its dome to its underground structures. We aim to bring the appropriate sections to our people."