Hagia Sophia Prepares for Next Big Quake: A Landmark’s Seismic Reinforcement

Istanbul’s Hagia Sophia, a 1,500-year-old architectural marvel, is undergoing one of its most extensive restorations in history to safeguard it against future earthquakes. This initiative comes in the wake of the devastating 7.8 magnitude earthquake that struck southern Turkey in 2023, highlighting the seismic vulnerabilities of the region. The restoration aims to preserve the structural integrity of this UNESCO World Heritage site while maintaining its function as a mosque and a symbol of cultural heritage.

Seismic Reinforcement of the Domes

The primary focus of the current restoration phase is the reinforcement of Hagia Sophia’s iconic domes. Engineers are replacing deteriorated lead coverings, upgrading the steel framework, and implementing modern techniques to enhance the structure’s resilience to seismic activity. A tower crane has been installed on the eastern side of the building to facilitate these renovations. Dr. Mehmet Selim Okten, an engineer overseeing the project, emphasized the urgency of these measures due to Istanbul’s proximity to active fault lines .

Digital Twin: A Blueprint for Reconstruction

In addition to physical restoration, Turkish authorities have created a digital twin of Hagia Sophia. This high-resolution 3D model captures every detail of the building’s architecture, serving as both a permanent digital record and a contingency plan for potential reconstruction. Launched in 2022 by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, the digital twin ensures that if the structure were ever compromised, it could be faithfully rebuilt using the comprehensive data collected .

Historical Context and Previous Restorations

Hagia Sophia has a rich history of restoration efforts. The most notable interventions include the 16th-century restoration by the renowned Ottoman architect Mimar Sinan and the 19th-century repairs by the Fossati brothers. These past efforts have contributed to the building’s resilience, but the current restoration is considered the third most extensive in its history, reflecting the evolving understanding of seismic risks and modern engineering capabilities .

Continued Accessibility During Restoration

Despite the ongoing restoration work, Hagia Sophia remains accessible to the public and worshippers. The Turkish government has ensured that the building’s operations continue without significant disruption, allowing visitors to experience its historical and spiritual significance while the necessary preservation work is carried out.

Broader Efforts in Istanbul

Hagia Sophia is part of a larger initiative to reinforce Istanbul’s historical buildings against earthquakes. Since the 1999 Izmit earthquake, over 500 historical structures in the city have undergone restoration to improve their seismic resilience. These efforts are coordinated by the General Directorate of Foundations and the Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality, employing modern engineering techniques to protect Istanbul’s rich cultural heritage .

Conclusion

The restoration of Hagia Sophia represents a critical step in preserving one of the world’s most significant cultural landmarks. Through a combination of structural reinforcement and digital preservation, Turkey is taking proactive measures to ensure that Hagia Sophia can withstand future seismic events. This comprehensive approach not only protects the building but also honors its historical and spiritual legacy for future generations.