The iconic dome of Hagia Sophia will be disassembled in the context of an extensive rehabilitation project aimed at preserving the “historical and structural integrity” of the world -renowned monument, they transmit Turkish means.

The attempt to restore under the supervision of the Directorate -General for Foundations of the Ministry of Culture and Tourism marks a critical phase in the ongoing maintenance work of the monument.

“The underside of the dome is covered with mosaics, making the structural intervention from below almost impossible,” explained Ahmet Güleç, a member of the Scientific Committee on Rehabilitation. “To deal with this, the restoration will focus abroad, starting with the removal of the lead cover and the concrete materials that have caused damage over time.”

During preliminary studies, structural abnormalities were identified in the lead cover of the dome and the findings required the dismantling of the outer layer of the dome and the evaluation of the status of its building blocks.

Güleç emphasized that there is concern for maintaining the historical authenticity of the dome, noting that “we will use materials and techniques that are in line with the construction of the Ottoman era to ensure that the dome is stable and faithful to its original character.”

To facilitate work and protect staff from difficult weather conditions, a temporary roofing over the dome will be erected.

The work program also includes repairs to the north and eastern facade, which were found to have been damaged.

Disassembly and subsequent repairs are expected to begin in March or April, following the approval of the studies of the works by the Scientific Committee.