Turkey’s Council of State on 10 July annulled the 1934 decree that had made Hagia Sophia a museum. President Erdoğan then signed an order transferring the monument to the religious affairs authority and opening it for Muslim worship.

What happened

Built as a Byzantine cathedral in the sixth century, Hagia Sophia later served as an Ottoman mosque before becoming a museum. Its layered history makes it a globally significant cultural and religious site.

Why it mattered

The decision was welcomed by many government supporters but drew concern from UNESCO, Christian leaders and foreign governments about universal access and preservation.

Consequences

Officials said the building would remain open to visitors and its artworks would be protected. The first Friday prayers were held later that month.

Sources

• Reuters
• UNESCO