The outer casing of Hagia Sophia’s iconic dome will be dismantled as part of an extensive conservation project at the Byzantine church, which has been operating as a mosque since 2020.
“The underside of the dome is covered with mosaics, making structural intervention from below almost impossible,” explained Ahmet Gulets, a member of the scientific committee for the restoration. “To address this, restoration will focus on the exterior, beginning with the removal of lead cladding and cement-based materials that have been damaged over time.”
During preliminary studies, structural anomalies were identified in the dome’s lead covering. The findings necessitated plans to dismantle the dome’s outer layer and assess the condition of its structural elements, he said.
To facilitate year-round operations and protect against adverse weather conditions, a temporary roof structure will be erected over the dome. This will allow the team to proceed without interruption from rain or wind.
The restoration program also includes repairs to the north and east facades. Steel pipe scaffolding and safety mesh covers have been installed, and non-original cement-based plasters are being replaced with traditional Ottoman materials.
Dismantling of the dome and subsequent repairs are expected to begin in March or April, after the project plans are approved by the scientific committee. The project is supervised by the General Directorate of Foundations of the Ministry of Culture and Tourism of Turkey.
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