Byzantine Mosaics Shine Again: After four years of closure, the public can once again marvel at the breathtaking Byzantine-era mosaics adorning the upper gallery of Istanbul’s iconic Hagia Sophia. This marks a joyous occasion for history buffs and culture lovers. However, the reopening comes with a caveat: restrictions, particularly for international visitors.
Mosque Revisited, Tourists Restrated: Following President Erdoğan’s 2020 decree converting the historic edifice back into a mosque, non-Muslims now face limited access to the ground floor. Previously a museum, the Hagia Sophia’s transformation has resulted in a designated tourist area and an entrance fee for international visitors.
Overtourism Concerns: The decision to revert the Hagia Sophia to a mosque stemmed from concerns about overtourism. After abolishing the entrance fee, visitor numbers skyrocketed from 3.7 million in 2019 to a staggering 13.6 million in 2022, leading to overcrowding and damage.
Balancing Preservation and Access: Istanbul-based tour guide Cihancan Sezgin acknowledges the challenges of excessive crowds within the ancient structure. While the new entrance fee might be inconvenient, he views it as essential for preserving the Hagia Sophia’s integrity. The true impact on visitor numbers and experience, especially during peak season, remains to be seen.
Separate Entrances, Evolving Rules: As of January 15, 2024, two separate entrances exist: one for Turkish citizens accessing the worship areas, and another for international visitors and “Other Nationalities” directed to the designated tourist area. Access regulations for non-Turkish Muslim visitors seeking to pray are still evolving, with hopes for better clarity and adherence in the future.
Seeking a Sustainable Future: This reorganization aims to achieve a delicate balance: managing visitor flow, preserving the Hagia Sophia’s sacred nature, and enhancing the tourist experience by mitigating overtourism issues. While challenges lie ahead, the reopening of the upper gallery marks a significant step towards ensuring the Hagia Sophia’s future as a cultural treasure for generations to come.
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