The Reconversion of the Hagia Sophia: Interpretations and Silences

Markus Dressler, Leipzig University

Built in the 6^th century as Byzantine cathedral, the Hagia Sophia was converted into a mosque following the Ottoman conquest of Istanbul in 1453. In the early Kemalist republic, it was secularized in 1933. The building then functioned as museum until July 2020, when this secularization was reversed by a Turkish Court, leading to the swift reconversion of the Hagia Sophia, which was celebrated with an initial Friday prayer on July 24.

This contribution will investigate various dominant interpretations (Islamist through nationalist) of the reconversion of the Hagia Sophia. It will thereby also raise the question as to what marks the Hagia Sophia from different perspectives as “sacred”. Finally, it will address the silences and unheard voices in the public discussions of the event (especially those of the Greek Orthodox community and the Kemalists).