Preparations completed for first mass Friday prayer at Hagia Sophia

Photo: AA

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Hagia Sophia is ready to reopen as a mosque with a Friday prayer tomorrow (July 24), Governor of İstanbul Ali Yerlikaya has announced.

In a press conference at the iconic marvel, Yerlikaya said five different open spaces were reserved for worshipers to prevent overcrowding and possible coronavirus infections.

Entrance to the areas reserved for prayer will start at 10.00 am (08.00 GMT) and those who come for prayers will be let in after security searches, he added.

On transportation to the mosque, he said some roads and metro lines will be closed before and during the prayer time.

About the Covid-19 outbreak, Yerlikaya said the worshippers who come to Hagia Sophia should bring their own masks and prayer rugs as well as patience and understanding to protect against the virus and make things easier.

Meanwhile, the Religious Affairs Directorate announced that it appointed three imams and five muezzins for Hagia Sophia.

About Hagia Sophia's conversion into a mosque

Hagia Sophia is among Turkey's top tourism destinations for both domestic and foreign visitors.

In 1985, during its time as a museum, Hagia Sophia was added to the UNESCO World Heritage List.

It served as a church for 916 years until the Ottoman Empire took over İstanbul, and a mosque from 1453 to 1934, and most recently as a museum for 86 years.

On July 10, the Council of State annulled a 1934 cabinet decree that had turned Hagia Sophia into a museum, paving the way for its use again as a mosque.

On the same day, Hagia Sophia was handed over to the Religious Affairs Directorate by a presidential decree.

On July 16, the Religious Affairs Directorate signed a cooperation protocol with the Ministry of Culture and Tourism to run Hagia Sophia after its conversion into a mosque.

Under the protocol, the ministry will supervise restoration and conservation work, while the Religious Affairs Directorate will oversee religious services.

The architectural treasure will also be open to domestic and foreign tourists free of charge. (SO/PT/VK)