The Turkish Culture and Tourism Ministry has announced the implementation of a 25 euro entrance fee for foreign tourists visiting Hagia Sophia, the iconic former Orthodox Christian cathedral in Istanbul, starting this Monday.
The 1,500-year-old Byzantine cathedral was converted from a museum into a mosque by Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in 2020.
Despite this transformation, the historic site remains a UNESCO World Heritage Site and attracts over 3.5 million visitors annually.
Under the new regulation, foreign tourists exploring the site will be required to pay a 25-euro entrance fee. However, Turkish nationals entering for religious worship will still enjoy free access through a separate entrance.
As part of ongoing restoration efforts, the Culture and Tourism Ministry has installed ticket booths to facilitate the collection of entrance fees, ensuring a smooth transition for visitors starting this Monday.
The ministry has also implemented security measures, including the installation of security cameras, fire detection systems, and emergency communication systems along the touring route within the monument. These measures aim to enhance the overall safety and experience for visitors exploring the historically significant Hagia Sophia.
Source: Ekathimerini.
