Despite UNESCO’s reactions, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan announced architectural alterations in Hagia Sophia in the future, so that the space acquires a “spiritual atmosphere”.
However, he said that after the elections the title of Hagia Sophia shall change and later the issue of prayer shall also be examined.
According to ANT1, in Erdogan’s interview to the state channel ΤRΤ on Saturday, just a few hours before today’s local elections, Turkish President posed the question whether Hagia Sophia is a museum or a mosque, and answered himself that first of all this issue must be solved.
“Hagia Sophia has recently acquired the title of a museum. Firstly we should render Hagia Sophia its real identity, i.e. a mosque. This must be settled. Some say that entrance in Sultanahmet (Blue Mosque) is free, but because of Hagia Sophia’s status, one must pay entrance fee. We say that this can also be settled”, said Erdogan.
Turkish President added that a free entrance to Hagia Sophia presupposes “important architectural alterations” inside the timeless symbol of Orthodox faith.
“Those alterations I had in mind and if the entrance is to become more convenient, the floor must be checked along with an area that shall give the place its true spiritual atmosphere. That’s why we said that after the elections we shall start constructions according to the law, and change Hagia Sophia from a museum to a mosque. Our plans of road maps and the issue of prayer shall be later based on this. With the help of God, this is how we plan to proceed”, argued Erdogan.
