Istanbul's Hagia Sophia ('Holy Wisdom'), or Ayasofya, is one of the
world's most visited buildings. Yet, few visitors have any idea of its
long and complex story, or why it has always been a place where history,
religion and politics collide. In July 2020, Turkish President Erdoğan
set off an explosive controversy by announcing that Hagia Sophia would
now be modified into a mosque. This decision provoked fierce criticism
from UNESCO because Hagia Sophia was enjoying World Heritage Site
benefits. The United States, the European Union, Russia and Greece all
chimed in. However, Erdoğan's action was wildly popular in Turkey, with
its 99% Muslim population. Why is Hagia Sophia so important to modern
Turkey? Why this provocative decision, and why now? How could all the
international critics be ignored? Why does the world care so much about
this old building? Why should it continue to care?
This book explains President Erdoğan's controversial decision in terms
of Turkey's national, independent and Islamic politics, and as a
response to the mosque massacre in Christchurch in March 2019 when his
life was threatened by the gunman. Any consideration of Hagia Sophia's
present and future also requires appreciation of the almost 1,500-year
old story of this architectural marvel, from its inception as a church
in 537 to its configuration as a mosque in 2020 and beyond. Because all
world heritage sites depend on national management, Hagia Sophia will
remain Turkey's responsibility, but the international community is
watching to ensure Turkey honours Hagia Sophia's entire heritage, from
the 6th century to the 21st century.
