Historic sanctuaries, the apple of the eye of Turkish-Islamic civilization, continue to rise from the ashes through massive restoration efforts carried out by the General Directorate of Foundations of the Ministry of Culture and Tourism. Over the last 24 years, 5,930 mosques and masjids domestically and 40 abroad have been carefully restored and reunited with their congregations.
Selimiye Mosque HERITAGES OF CIVILIZATION In addition to Selimiye Mosque, numerous important works of our civilization heritage, such as the Nuruosmaniye Complex, the Chora Mosque, the Habib-i Neccar Mosque in Hatay, the Grand Mosque of Kahramanmaraş, the Muradiye Mosque in Uzunköprü, Edirne, the Hacı Bektaş-ı Veli Tomb in Nevşehir, and the Sungurbey Mosque in Niğde, were raised as a result of extensive efforts.
Kurtuluş Mosque In the grandiose revival process that spans centuries, the Edirne Selimiye Mosque, considered the pinnacle of Turkish-Islamic architecture, hosted the most comprehensive and delicate restoration operation in its history. The details carried out in the masterwork, which dazzles with its elegance, adding life to the building, became a symbol of loyalty to the ancestral heritage.
Habib-i Neccar Mosque The old lead on the courtyard domes that had succumbed to time was completely removed. After the Horasan and mud plasters were renewed in accordance with their original texture, all lead surfaces were armored from top to bottom with gleaming new lead covering. On the main dome, static reinforcement works were completed without fail.
Nuruosmaniye Mosque TRADITIONAL TOUCHES All cement plasters identified as damaging the structure were meticulously scraped off; they were replaced with Horasan plasters, the ancient mortar of our civilization. The exterior stones and minarets were restored to their original splendor using special sandblasting techniques that do not harm the texture, and damaged stones were repaired in accordance with the original.
Grand Mosque of Kahramanmaraş All the ornaments and hand-drawn works in the interior and exterior reflecting the soul of the mosque were overhauled by master hands. The kündekari doors, the peak of wood art, were meticulously restored; the windows, inner and outer frames were manufactured from scratch while adhering to the historical texture.
In addition to the interior maintenance and renewals that complement the mystical atmosphere of the mosque, a comprehensive garden layout reflecting the ancestors' value for greenery was implemented. HAGIA SOPHIA GRAND MOSQUE Besides Selimiye, many landmark structures located in the heart of our civilizational geography also regained their original identity during this historic period.
One of the most symbolic steps taken towards the revival of historic sanctuaries took place in Istanbul. The Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque, reopened for worship after 86 years with the historic decision of July 24, 2020, has now marked its sixth anniversary of opening its doors to its congregation. The AK Party Istanbul Provincial Women's Branch also prepared a special newspaper page for the anniversary.
