After restoration, tourists will be able to visit the underground tunnels of Hagia Sophia in Constantinople.translated

Works of restoration at Hagia Sophia in Constantinople have uncovered 9 kilometers of underground tunnels. These could be opened for visits after the completion of the works, announced Mehmet Nuri Ersoy, Minister of Culture and Tourism of Turkey.

"However, there are breaks and areas that impede passage. At present, we continue cleaning and restoration work in accessible sections. After the completion of the works, we can evaluate opening appropriate and safe sections for visitors," the official stated in a social media post.

Works of Restoration The underground tunnels at Hagia Sophia in Constantinople could be partially opened for visits after the completion of renovations, Turkish Culture Minister Mehmet Nuri Ersoy announced on Thursday, September 14, 2026. Source photo: X.com

The minister listed areas where works have been completed: the crypts, the school built during the Ottoman period, the Clock Tower, the pavement and gallery, the minaret added in the northeast during the Ottoman period.

Further work is ongoing to strengthen the structure and preserve the mosaics from the main dome and the eastern semi-dome.