Turkey Considers Opening 1,600-Year-Old Underground Tunnels Beneath Hagia Sophia

ISTANBUL — Turkish authorities are considering opening previously inaccessible underground chambers beneath Hagia Sophia to visitors as restoration work continues at the historic monument. Culture and Tourism Minister Mehmet Nuri Ersoy said the underground sections would first be presented to journalists before officials evaluate whether they can safely accommodate the public.

Ersoy confirmed that an extensive network of underground tunnels beneath Hagia Sophia and the surrounding historic area stretches approximately nine kilometers, with some sections believed to date back around 1,600 years. Parts of the network are currently being cleaned and restored, while other passages remain blocked by collapsed sections and debris.

The minister described the underground structures as potentially as significant as the monument's famous architectural features above ground. He said access would depend on completing the necessary restoration and safety measures.

Ersoy also characterized the current restoration program as one of the most extensive undertaken at Hagia Sophia during the history of the Turkish Republic, with work involving structural reinforcement, conservation, and engineering under scientific supervision.

Restoration has been completed on several sections, including the tombs, the Children's School, the Clock Tower, and the gallery floor. Reinforcement of the northeastern minaret has also been finished.

Work continues on the main dome, including structural reinforcement and conservation of its mosaics. A temporary metal roof and protective covering have been installed, while a specially constructed platform allows workers to document, clean, and preserve the dome's decorations.

Despite the ongoing work, Hagia Sophia remains open for religious services and visitors. The proposed opening of the underground chambers could provide public access to another part of the church's nearly 1,500-year history.

Previously, the UOJ reported that Russian tourists were detained after reading the Bible inside Hagia Sophia.