Preservation History
Hagia Sophia Renovation
1,500 years of restoration and preservation efforts
Throughout its 1,500-year history, Hagia Sophia has undergone numerous renovations and restorations to address earthquake damage, structural concerns, and the natural aging of materials.
Byzantine Restorations (537-1453)
- 557-563 AD: First major reconstruction after dome collapse due to earthquakes
- 989 AD: Dome reconstruction after western arch collapse
- 1346 AD: Buttresses added after earthquake damage
Ottoman Period (1453-1934)
- 1453: Conversion to mosque, addition of first minaret
- 16th century: Architect Sinan adds structural buttresses
- 1847-1849: Fossati brothers major restoration - mosaics documented
- 1894: Post-earthquake repairs
Modern Conservation (1934-Present)
- 1934-1950s: Conversion to museum, mosaic uncovering begins
- 1993-2010: UNESCO-supported structural monitoring
- 2006-2012: Major dome and minaret restoration
- 2020-Present: Ongoing preservation as active mosque
Preservation Challenges
- Seismic activity in Istanbul region
- Water infiltration and humidity damage
- Tourism impact on fragile surfaces
- Balancing religious use with preservation