Biohacking is a term that refers to the attempt to positively influence the functioning of the organism by hacking, or trying to "force", one's genetic heritage, with the goal of living better and longer.

The concept of biohacking originated in Silicon Valley and involves a range of strategies, including nutrition, sleep quality, physical activity, and cognitive stimulation, to strengthen the body from a physical and mental point of view.

One of the pillars of biohacking is intermittent fasting, which involves concentrating the diet in a precise time span of the day, and should always be done under medical supervision.

Biohacking also involves taking care of sleep, as sleep debt can accelerate aging, and 30-40 percent of people sleep too little.

In addition to nutrition and sleep, biohacking enthusiasts also use various techniques such as cold-water therapy, saunas, and supplements to improve their health and well-being.

Some popular biohacking techniques include nutritional interventions, such as intermittent fasting and ketogenic diets, which have been shown to have potential health benefits, including weight loss and improved insulin sensitivity.

Physical activity is also a key component of many biohacking regimens, with techniques such as high-intensity interval training (HIIT) and strength training being used to improve cardiovascular health and increase muscle mass.

Supplement intake is another common biohacking practice, with many enthusiasts using vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients to support optimal health, although the effectiveness of these supplements is often debated and requires further clinical research.

Medical screenings, such as blood tests and genetic analysis, are also used by biohackers to identify potential health risks and optimize their health, with some studies suggesting that these screenings can be effective in preventing chronic diseases.

Mental health practices, including meditation and mindfulness, are also popular among biohackers, with research suggesting that these practices can have a positive impact on mental well-being and cognitive function.

However, despite the growing popularity of biohacking, there is a need for more clinical research to fully understand the effectiveness and safety of these techniques, with many studies being small-scale or anecdotal.

Some clinical studies have investigated the effectiveness of specific biohacking techniques, such as a study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) that found that a ketogenic diet can be effective in improving blood sugar control in patients with type 2 diabetes.

Another study published in the Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research found that HIIT can be an effective way to improve cardiovascular health and increase muscle mass.

However, more research is needed to fully understand the benefits and risks of biohacking techniques, and to provide evidence-based recommendations for their use.

While some biohacking methods may be supported by reliable scientific data, others may not be, and it is essential to approach biohacking with a critical and evidence-based perspective.

Extreme biohacking practices, such as intermittent fasting, ketogenic diets, and high-dose supplement intake, can pose significant health risks if not properly monitored and supervised by medical professionals.

The potential risks associated with intermittent fasting include malnutrition, dehydration, and electrolyte imbalances, particularly in individuals with pre-existing medical conditions.

Ketogenic diets, if not properly planned, can lead to an increased risk of kidney stones, osteoporosis, and cardiovascular disease due to the high fat content and potential for nutrient deficiencies.

High-dose supplement intake can cause adverse interactions with medications, exacerbate underlying health conditions, and lead to toxicity, highlighting the need for medical supervision to prevent these negative consequences.

Medical supervision is crucial in mitigating the risks associated with extreme biohacking practices, as healthcare professionals can monitor biomarkers, adjust protocols, and provide personalized guidance to minimize potential harm.

Regular medical screenings, including blood work and physical exams, can help identify potential issues before they become severe, allowing for timely interventions and adjustments to biohacking protocols.

Additionally, mental health practices, such as mindfulness and stress management, can help biohacking enthusiasts cope with the physical and emotional demands of extreme practices, reducing the risk of burnout and other psychological adverse effects.

The scientific community has raised concerns about the lack of standardization and regulation in the biohacking industry, highlighting the importance of evidence-based approaches and medical oversight to prevent harm and promote optimal outcomes.

Ultimately, biohacking enthusiasts should prioritize medical supervision and monitoring to minimize the risks associated with extreme practices, ensuring that their pursuit of self-optimization and wellness is both safe and effective.

Biohacking can be a useful approach to improving health and well-being, particularly when combined with traditional medical practices and a healthy lifestyle, but it is essential to approach this practice with caution and to carefully evaluate the scientific evidence supporting various biohacking methods and techniques.

Women are increasingly becoming involved in the biohacking movement, and some experts argue that they are the "original biohackers" due to their natural ability to adapt to changing physiological needs throughout their lives.

The biohacking community is expected to become more inclusive and diverse, with a greater focus on sustainable, long-term health practices rather than quick fixes or shortcuts.

Overall, while biohacking has the potential to improve human health and longevity, it is essential to approach this practice with caution and to carefully evaluate the scientific evidence supporting various biohacking methods and techniques.

Biohacking is a term that refers to the attempt to positively influence the functioning of the organism by hacking, or trying to "force", one's genetic heritage, with the goal of living better and longer.

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Content: Home » biohacking, reprogramming mind and body to live better

biohacking, reprogramming mind and body to live better

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It’s called “biohacking” and it comes from Silicon Valley. Listen: The long life diet: the longevity formula is calorie restriction …

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It’s called “biohacking” and comes from Silicon Valley.

A relatively new word that comes from the union of “biology” and “hacker” and indicates the attempt to positively influence the functioning of the organism, by hacking, ie trying to “force”, one’s genetic heritage. A strategy to live better and longer launched years ago by Californian top managers and which then spread throughout the world. How to upgrade the “operating system” of the human body? No manipulation, here we are talking about “reprogramming” and new lifestyles. “Our genetic heritage has enormous unexpressed potential that can be activated,” he explains Fabio Piccinidoctor and psychoanalyst, researcher of Food Sciences of theMarche Polytechnic University, author of the book “Biohacking Techniques: how to optimize metabolism to increase health and longevity”. “Biohacking aims to activate epigenetic modifications by awakening dormant genes to enhance the body’s resources.” While genetics studies the structure of DNA, epigenetics the way genes express themselves, i.e. how much they are turned on or off. “We’re talking about a set of strategies that aim to strengthen the body from a physical and mental point of view, first of all through nutrition, sleep quality, physical activity, cognitive stimulation”. One of the pillars of biohacking and the intermittent fasting, Piccini adds, which plans to concentrate the diet in a precise time span of the day (to be followed always under medical supervision). «But it is equally important to take care of sleep, we know very well that sleep debt accelerates aging and that 30-40 percent of people sleep too little. Just as it is essential to check thehydration. Physical training must also be intermittent, with recovery periods in place to allow the muscle layers to rebuild. And then, you have to keep learning something at any age, another pillar of biohacking: studying music or a new language, for example, to counteract cognitive degeneration”.

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THE QUALITY OF LIFE

Sandra Milo is one of the supporters of this well-being and longevity strategy. «I’m lucky, at 90 I’m in full health and I still have a great desire to enjoy life. I don’t know if it’s a matter of genetics, nor do I think there is a “magic formula” of longevity, but I have certainly always been careful to lead a healthy life. There is nothing more beautiful than reaching old age with a smile and in full autonomy », says the actress who baptized the first Biohacking Suite in Rome. “Our mission is not so much to lengthen life but to improve its quality by lowering the rate of morbidity,” explains Dr. Claudio Urbani, specialist in regenerative medicine, neuroscience and stress therapy, head of the longevity center Umb. «Biohacking aims to modify dormant functional responses from non-use, from muscular or cardiovascular function to flexibility. It is about regaining possession of the body and the mind-body axis, starting with stress management». Diagnosing your own state of “aging” involves a series of tests. «The measurement of oxidative stress which measures the quantity of free radicals and indicates any inflammatory states, plethysmography to evaluate the functionality of the microcirculation of the legs, impedancemetry to study body composition, fat and lean mass, nutritional status and hydration level. And only after the check is a tailor-made program created for each person. Among the suggested therapies, there is also that of the cold which stimulates the metabolism and reduces inflammation ».

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The concept of biohacking originated in Silicon Valley and involves a range of strategies, including nutrition, sleep quality, physical activity, and cognitive stimulation, to strengthen the body from a physical and mental point of view.

One of the pillars of biohacking is intermittent fasting, which involves concentrating the diet in a precise time span of the day, and should always be done under medical supervision.

Biohacking also involves taking care of sleep, as sleep debt can accelerate aging, and 30-40 percent of people sleep too little.

In addition to nutrition and sleep, biohacking enthusiasts also use various techniques such as cold-water therapy, saunas, and supplements to improve their health and well-being.

Title:

Content: TV legend Davinia Taylor has revealed how well she is feeling after undertaking a new lifestyle that involves biohacking.

Biohacking occurs when someone changes their nutrition and lifestyle in order to make themselves healthier. Each person who biohacks does so in a different way whether it’s cutting out alcohol, taking supplements, or engaging in anti-ageing procedures.

Davinia – who starred in Hollyoaks – has explained that her biohacking involves cold-water therapy and removing inflammatory foods from her diet.

As a result of her new lifestyle, which also includes the use of saunas and supplements, Davinia has said that she now feels healthier than she ever has before.

Speaking to Hello! Davinia said that she entered a difficult period of poor mental health after the death of her mother when she was 35.

She added: “Boredom drove me to drink and then to eat unhealthily. I don’t want to go into my 50s feeling bored, so I had to find another way to get the dopamine I crave.”

On the techniques she uses for her biohacking, Davinia reveals that one of her routine acts is taking supplements from a company she founded. Known as WillPowders which contain collagen, protein, bone broth, and MCT (a healthy form of saturated fat) they have become an essential part of her routine.

Davinia explained: “If I don’t have my morning keto creamer and collagen, I’m going to end up binging on croissants or brownies. It’s how I’m wired after my 1980s upbringing.”

This isn’t the first time Davinia has spoken about biohacking. Earlier this year she told the Evening Standard that it wasn’t a case of taking big measures to improve one’s health.

She said: “There's so much doom and gloom… There's so much doom and gloom…There are so many little hacks you can do just to make yourself feel mentally better.”

Davinia highlighted the benefits of cold-water therapy, a method she said can be cheap to access: “The water’s freezing in this country two-thirds of the time. And on the few months a year when it’s not, just go to the supermarket, buy some ice bags and empty them into the bath.”

Some popular biohacking techniques include nutritional interventions, such as intermittent fasting and ketogenic diets, which have been shown to have potential health benefits, including weight loss and improved insulin sensitivity.

Physical activity is also a key component of many biohacking regimens, with techniques such as high-intensity interval training (HIIT) and strength training being used to improve cardiovascular health and increase muscle mass.

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Biohacking & Toxic Masculinity: How Women Dismantled The Boys Club

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By Jamie Schneider
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Jamie Schneider is the Beauty Editor at mindbodygreen. She has a B.A. in Organizational Studies and English from the University of Michigan, and her work has appeared in Coveteur, The Chill Times, and Wyld Skincare.
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Dr. Bindiya Gandhi is an American Board Family Medicine–certified physician who completed her family medicine training at Georgia Regents University/Medical College of Georgia.
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Take a quick search for “biohacker” on TikTok (a tag with over 137 million views), and you’ll discover a slew of men discussing their muscle gains, testosterone levels, and cold plunge routines. You’ll see some women on the page, but the space is undoubtedly dominated by male energy. And think of the outspoken biohackers you may listen to on podcasts—chances are most of them are men, too.

This gendered approach to biohacking, while pervasive, is simply misguided. But now, women are asserting their authority in health optimization, and we expect their emphasis to soar in the year ahead.

Meet the experts

Molly Maloof. M.D.

Molly Maloof. M.D. provides health optimization and personalized medicine to high-achieving entrepreneurs, investors, and technology executives. Since 2012, she has worked as an advisor or consultant to more than 50 companies in the digital health, consumer health, and biotechnology industries. Her company, Adamo Bioscience, is working on sexual health optimization.

Gabrielle Lyon, D.O.

Gabrielle Lyon, D.O. is a board-certified family physician leading a disruption in modern medicine that focuses on the largest organ in the body: skeletal muscle. With a background that includes a combined research and clinical fellowship in geriatrics and nutritional sciences at Washington University and undergraduate training in nutritional sciences at the University of Illinois, she is a subject-matter expert on protein for health, performance, aging, and disease prevention.

Stacy Salvi

Stacy Salvi is the vice president of product and strategy at the medical device company Movano Health—the creator of the Evie Ring, the first medical-grade health wearable designed for women.

Mona Vand, PharmD

Mona Vand, PharmD studied pharmacy at Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences before developing her platform that shares holistic wellness advice.

Why biohacking isn’t just for “bros”

“Women are the original biohackers,” declares family physician, Molly Maloof, M.D. “Our hormones change throughout our lives, and this requires us to adapt accordingly.” Our biology means that women often need to constantly edit their health routines and experiment with lifestyle habits as time goes on. Isn’t that the very definition of biohacking?

Let's back up: Here at mindbodygreen, we think of “biohacking” as the practice of making lifestyle tweaks to optimize health and promote longevity. Not shortcuts—contrary to popular belief—but low-lift, everyday habits that complement and enhance an existing well-being routine. Think: optimizing your exercise regimen using tools and techniques (the “biohacks”) to enhance muscle growth. It’s essentially all about advancing health with “do it yourself” biology—a topic that can pique anyone’s interest, regardless of gender.

“[Women] have a most complex physiological lifecycle that requires us to track and manage fertility, pregnancy, breastfeeding, sexuality, perimenopause, and menopause. So we should be looking at biohacking as a path to even greater health and owning the opportunity to improve our lives,” says Maloof.

Yet many women feel intimidated to enter the biohacking scene as it exists today, turned off by the male-dominated energy in the room.

Women are the original biohackers

Molly Maloof, M.D

“Biohacking has always grabbed my attention, and I want to learn, but it sometimes makes me really stressed out, because I go into this state of perfectionism where I have to do all the things,” says doctor of pharmacy and wellness practitioner Mona Vand, PharmD. “The few biohackers that I followed were all males… it just doesn't really resonate with my energy.”

This male energy is not only frustrating but can potentially harm women’s health in the long run. After all, building muscle, prioritizing protein, and keeping an eye on various health metrics are crucial for longevity—in some cases, these proactive measures can save lives. When women don’t get involved, it can totally impact their well-being.

“Physical strength is nonnegotiable,” says functional medicine doctor Gabrielle Lyon, D.O. “I've been a physician since 2006, and I've never heard someone say, ‘I regret being physically strong.’” And the muscle-building space impacts more than just physiological changes, she says. “You optimize fertility, you make healthier babies, you help the epigenetics of your child,” Lyon adds. “You age better, your skin is better, you're less likely to fall and break a hip… There's nothing that doesn't get better the stronger you are.”

So let’s be clear: Dismantling the biohacking boy’s club is not just about helping women feel included; there are real health implications at stake here.

Why the biohacker space actually really needs a dose of feminine energy

I’d be remiss not to mention how biohacking culture can easily become synonymous with hustle culture (some experts don’t even like to use the term, as it implies you can achieve optimal health with quick fixes). But as more women enter the biohacking space, we expect it to become more intuitive and less about hitting every single benchmark. From there, we predict women will focus more on sustainable changes long-term instead of a gazillion quick hacks.

“I used to think it was a flex to do a million things at the same time and habit stack,” Vand recounts. “I now carve out time for doing things that have no efficiency to them, that are strictly for joy or rest and relaxation, versus benefiting my longevity or health. It can be a little bit obsessive when you get into this thought pattern, and I just don't resonate with it.”

This doesn’t mean biohacking will become “softer” as it embraces feminine energy. But there’s an opportunity here for women to introduce some much-needed flexibility into a space that has long felt needlessly rigid.

How the biohacker game is changing — and where it’s headed next

Thanks to a growing awareness that healthcare protocols should not be gendered, more women are now starting to pay attention to markers of performance like lean muscle, hormetic stressors, VO2 max, HRV, zone 2 training, etc. “Cold plunging, saunas, and harder, more physical activities are not just for the boys anymore,” adds Lyon—and we expect an even bigger shift to come in 2024.

“I think it’s super exciting to see biohacking become more mainstream and more women joining the conversation,” adds Maloof. She praises apps like Wild.AI, for women who aim to make lifestyle adjustments based on their menstrual cycle, and Zero, for women who want to dabble in time-restricted eating, both of which have helped to herald the shift.

Other existing health optimization companies are now inviting women into the conversation by introducing specific features informed by their unique physiology. WHOOP, for example, is currently working on upgrades to their popular health-tracking band: “We did a study recently where we learned a lot about how a woman's body changes during pregnancy and how her heart rate variability (HRV) will evolve. It'll decrease, and then about seven weeks before she gives birth, it will increase sharply,” explains Will Ahmed, WHOOP founder and CEO, on the mindbodygreen podcast

If a woman didn’t know that this was supposed to happen, she might look at this stark increase with a critical (or anxious) eye. “We've been able to take population-level data on pregnant women and now have a feature in the app, where a woman can see how her body is evolving alongside what other pregnant women are experiencing,” he adds.

Similarly, creatine supplements—from the ingredients to the packaging—are no longer marketed toward dudes looking to bulk up, and we are certainly here for it. After all, muscle mass is a predictor of longevity and healthspan, so supplements that promote it can help all of us “hack” our health in a big way.

And as Lyon notes, women have lower endogenous creatine stores compared to men (meaning, they have less available). And the amino acid has been associated with significantly increased muscle mass1 in both men and women, without increasing the risk of adverse outcomes2, like weight gain. “Most of the women in my practice will go on creatine, and they find anecdotally that it really improves both anaerobic and aerobic exercise performance,” Lyon shares.

Not to mention the supplement’s brain health perks: Taking creatine has been shown to benefit both working memory and processing speed3 as well as cognitive longevity4. “It is above and beyond simply sport performance,” adds Lyon, who has certainly seen an uptick in women curious about creatine.

As women feel intimidated (or even restricted) by biohacking spaces, some experts have taken it upon themselves to create new ones that center the feminine. For example, neuropsychophysiologist Kayla Osterhoff, MPH, offers a Women's Biohacking Mini Course, consisting of lifestyle routines and tips aligned with female physiology.

Osterhoff also recently presented at the 2023 Dragonfly Live Conference—among other female biohackers—to discuss the latest advancements in women's well-being and the “health revolution” that’s sweeping the mainstream. This conference aims to gather the “who's-who” in the health space to discuss cutting-edge strategies and innovations that optimize well-being—by having women biohackers at the forefront of the conversation, we can expect them to hit the main stage in a broader sense.

Or take the brand new Evie Ring, the first medical-grade health wearable designed for women, created by medical device company Movano Health. The technology ties hormonal information to a woman’s sleep, activity, and heart health data (among other metrics).

For instance, “If we notice a more restless night of sleep in the luteal phase, we'll point it out and also give some strategies for how somebody may attack their day, despite having not gotten as good of a night of sleep,” says Stacy Salvi, vice president of product and strategy at Movano Health. Similarly, “We know that there are cardiovascular implications when your estrogen drops, so they would want to keep a better look on the function of their heart,” she adds. “This would be something that they would be able to do from our app.”

Even the design itself was made with women in mind: The ring features an open band meant to accommodate how women’s fingers change in size throughout the day, so it can stay comfortable.

To avoid needless stress, Evie also limits the amount of goals you can set on the app. “You can only set three at a time, because we do not want to overwhelm [users] with a bunch of different things,” says Salvi. “I mean, I'm an overachiever. I probably would set every single goal and then fail at them.” And heaven knows we don’t need yet another way for busy, overwhelmed women to feel like they’re failing in a society with unsurmountable standards.

Forecasting the future

A woman walks up to the weight rack in 2024. She sees the usual suspects—bros pounding protein shakes and grunting through their bicep curls—but now she also sees a fair amount of women on the scene. They’ve got creatine supplements! Fitness trackers! Kettlebells! (And no, they aren’t pink.)

Granted, we still have a ways to go before women feel totally embraced by the biohacking space (we’d first have to close the centuries-long gender gap in science and medicine), but it’s clear that the arena is becoming way less of a boy’s club. “And the world is ready, my friend,” says Lyon. “The world is absolutely ready for this.”

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Supplement intake is another common biohacking practice, with many enthusiasts using vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients to support optimal health, although the effectiveness of these supplements is often debated and requires further clinical research.

Medical screenings, such as blood tests and genetic analysis, are also used by biohackers to identify potential health risks and optimize their health, with some studies suggesting that these screenings can be effective in preventing chronic diseases.

Mental health practices, including meditation and mindfulness, are also popular among biohackers, with research suggesting that these practices can have a positive impact on mental well-being and cognitive function.

However, despite the growing popularity of biohacking, there is a need for more clinical research to fully understand the effectiveness and safety of these techniques, with many studies being small-scale or anecdotal.

Some clinical studies have investigated the effectiveness of specific biohacking techniques, such as a study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) that found that a ketogenic diet can be effective in improving blood sugar control in patients with type 2 diabetes.

Another study published in the Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research found that HIIT can be an effective way to improve cardiovascular health and increase muscle mass.

Another study published in the Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research found that HIIT can be an effective way to improve cardiovascular health and increase muscle mass.

However, more research is needed to fully understand the benefits and risks of biohacking techniques, and to provide evidence-based recommendations for their use.

However, more research is needed to fully understand the benefits and risks of biohacking techniques, and to provide evidence-based recommendations for their use.

While some biohacking methods may be supported by reliable scientific data, others may not be, and it is essential to approach biohacking with a critical and evidence-based perspective.

Extreme biohacking practices, such as intermittent fasting, ketogenic diets, and high-dose supplement intake, can pose significant health risks if not properly monitored and supervised by medical professionals.

The potential risks associated with intermittent fasting include malnutrition, dehydration, and electrolyte imbalances, particularly in individuals with pre-existing medical conditions.

Ketogenic diets, if not properly planned, can lead to an increased risk of kidney stones, osteoporosis, and cardiovascular disease due to the high fat content and potential for nutrient deficiencies.

High-dose supplement intake can cause adverse interactions with medications, exacerbate underlying health conditions, and lead to toxicity, highlighting the need for medical supervision to prevent these negative consequences.

Medical supervision is crucial in mitigating the risks associated with extreme biohacking practices, as healthcare professionals can monitor biomarkers, adjust protocols, and provide personalized guidance to minimize potential harm.

Regular medical screenings, including blood work and physical exams, can help identify potential issues before they become severe, allowing for timely interventions and adjustments to biohacking protocols.

Additionally, mental health practices, such as mindfulness and stress management, can help biohacking enthusiasts cope with the physical and emotional demands of extreme practices, reducing the risk of burnout and other psychological adverse effects.

The scientific community has raised concerns about the lack of standardization and regulation in the biohacking industry, highlighting the importance of evidence-based approaches and medical oversight to prevent harm and promote optimal outcomes.

Ultimately, biohacking enthusiasts should prioritize medical supervision and monitoring to minimize the risks associated with extreme practices, ensuring that their pursuit of self-optimization and wellness is both safe and effective.

Biohacking can be a useful approach to improving health and well-being, particularly when combined with traditional medical practices and a healthy lifestyle, but it is essential to approach this practice with caution and to carefully evaluate the scientific evidence supporting various biohacking methods and techniques.

Women are increasingly becoming involved in the biohacking movement, and some experts argue that they are the "original biohackers" due to their natural ability to adapt to changing physiological needs throughout their lives.

The biohacking community is expected to become more inclusive and diverse, with a greater focus on sustainable, long-term health practices rather than quick fixes or shortcuts.

Overall, while biohacking has the potential to improve human health and longevity, it is essential to approach this practice with caution and to carefully evaluate the scientific evidence supporting various biohacking methods and techniques.


The reconversion of Hagia Sophia into a mosque in 2020 by Turkish President Erdogan has been met with criticism from various parties, including the Greek Orthodox Church, which has decried it as an "ill-advised decision" that "makes a mockery of the Turkish government's commitment to religious tolerance and religious freedom".

The decision to convert Hagia Sophia into a mosque has been seen as a political move by Erdogan to appeal to his Islamist-leaning base, with many analysts attributing the loss of his party's votes to the more Islamist-leaning New Welfare Party.

Erdogan's statement that "the resurrection of Hagia Sophia heralds the liberation of the al-Aqsa Mosque" has been interpreted as having religious undertones, with some seeing it as a call to action for Muslims worldwide.

The conversion of Hagia Sophia into a mosque has also been criticized by the US State Department, which has encouraged the Turkish government to "preserve and ensure access to sites and buildings that have hosted different religious communities in a way that respects their diverse histories".

As a tour guide in Istanbul, it is essential to acknowledge the controversy surrounding the conversion of Hagia Sophia and provide context about its complex history as both a Byzantine cathedral and an Ottoman mosque.

When responding to upset tourists, tour guides can say "The Hagia Sophia is a historically and culturally significant site, and its conversion has sparked a range of emotions and reactions" to acknowledge the complexity of the issue.

To address concerns about the religious undertones of the conversion, tour guides can say "The Hagia Sophia has a rich history as both a Byzantine cathedral and an Ottoman mosque, and its current status reflects the complex and multifaceted nature of Turkish history and culture".

Tour guides can also use phrases such as "I'm here to provide information and answer your questions to the best of my ability, while also respecting the sensitivities and concerns of all our visitors" to maintain a respectful and inclusive tone.

By using these phrases and responses, tour guides can acknowledge the concerns of tourists while maintaining a neutral and respectful tone, and providing a positive and informative experience for all visitors.

The Turkish Tourism Minister, Mehmet Nuri Arsoy, has introduced measures to manage the coexistence of religious and tourist visitors at the Hagia Sophia, including restricted access and paid fees from January 15.

The introduction of separate entrances and guided tours using earphones can be seen as a strategy to manage discussions about sensitive topics, such as religious undertones and political motivations, by limiting direct interaction between tour guides and visitors.

To effectively manage discussions about sensitive topics like the Hagia Sophia conversion, tour guides should receive training and support on managing sensitive topics and creating inclusive and respectful dialogue.

Ultimately, the key to balancing the need to provide accurate information with the need to avoid taking a political or religious stance is for the guide to prioritize respect, sensitivity, and awareness of the site's complex history and cultural significance.

The reconversion of Hagia Sophia into a mosque in 2020 by Turkish President Erdogan has been met with criticism from various parties, including the Greek Orthodox Church, which has decried it as an "ill-advised decision" that "makes a mockery of the Turkish government's commitment to religious tolerance and religious freedom".

Title:

Content: After Hagia Sophia, Turkey converts a second ancient Byzantine church into a mosque

Hundreds of worshippers filled the narrow streets of Istanbul's Fatih district on Friday to hear the sounds of Friday prayers ringing out from the newly inaugurated Kariye Mosque.

Once known as the Chora Church, the site spent the last 79 years as a museum. But it is now the latest structure to be converted back into a mosque by the government of Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, following the conversion of Hagia Sophia in 2020. While viewed as a triumph by many Turkish Muslims, the Greek Orthodox Church has decried it as an "ill-advised decision" that "makes a mockery of the Turkish government's commitment to religious tolerance and religious freedom."

Chora's conversion was announced shortly after Hagia Sophia's, but its opening for prayer was delayed by years of restoration work.

The showing for the first Friday prayers at Kariye was relatively quiet compared to Hagia Sophia, which drew hundreds of thousands who filled the streets with prayer rugs for blocks and blocks away from the building. By contrast, the crowd on Friday was relatively average for a mosque in one of Istanbul's more religiously conservative neighborhoods, where Friday worshippers frequently spill out onto the streets.

Both the Chora Church and Hagia Sophia are 4th-century Byzantine constructions. They spent nearly a millennium as Christian holy sites before being converted to mosques by the Ottomans after their conquest of Constantinople in the 15th century. Despite their conversions, they remained revered by Orthodox Christians. After the founding of a secular Turkish Republic in the early 20th century, the decision was made for both to be neither mosque nor church but simply museums.

"Both Hagia Sophia and Chora embodied Byzantine and Ottoman pasts, and they became symbols of co-existence and multi-faith living practices. Their conversion fundamentally implies a hierarchy, prioritizing the Islamic past over all other layers, Greek Orthodox, Armenian, Jewish, Syriac, et al," Dr. Özgür Kaymak, a lecturer and researcher on minority rights at Istanbul's MEF University, told Religion News Service in an email.

Rededicating the sites as mosques is more than just a status change. According to Islamic tradition, artwork of human figures are forbidden in places of prayer, while in Orthodox Churches, icons of Christ, saints and other biblical figures are a defining feature.

In Hagia Sophia, the mosaics of Jesus and Mary have been covered with curtains since the conversion. While Erdoğan promised Hagia Sophia would remain fully accessible and free to all visitors, Turkey reneged on that earlier this year, reimposing an entrance fee on tourists and relegating them to the upper level, while the main floor is exclusive to Muslim worshippers.

Observers have also criticized the Turkish Directorate of Religion's caretaking of the site, noting damage that did not exist when it was under the purview of the Ministry of Culture and Tourism.

Though Chora is significantly smaller than Hagia Sophia, it is home to some of the best-preserved examples of late-Byzantine art, including mosaics, icons and frescoes, and is considered a UNESCO World Heritage site.

"For us it's a very important place because it remembers our culture and our traditions here," Father Evangelos Markantonis, an Orthodox priest who was leading a group of theology students to Chora on Friday, told Religion News Service.

"Though we cannot venerate as Orthodox Christians, we have to try to find things we can be united on. Only with dialogue and good deeds can we continue our lives," Markantonis, who is also a professor at the University of Athens, said when asked about the controversy.

Erdoğan had long refused calls from his right to convert churches like Hagia Sophia and Chora, telling supporters in 2018 to fill the nearby Sultan Ahmet Mosque (also known in English as the Blue Mosque) before they talked about needing to pray in Hagia Sophia.

Nonetheless, he made an about-turn in 2020.

"My dear nation, the conquest of Istanbul and the conversion of the Hagia Sophia into a Mosque are among the most glorious chapters in Turkish history," Erdoğan said at the time in a speech inaugurating the Hagia Sophia as a mosque.

"This is the most honorable day that Islam has been looking forward to, Greek Constantinople has become Turkish Istanbul," he added, quoting the Turkish poet Nazim Hikmet.

"The resurrection of Hagia Sophia heralds the liberation of the al-Aqsa Mosque. The resurrection of Hagia Sophia is the footsteps of the will of Muslims across the world to come out of the interregnum," Erdoğan said in his concluding remarks.

Chora's opening as the Kariye Mosque comes just weeks after Erdoğan's Justice and Development Party (AKP) suffered its largest electoral defeat in two decades during Turkey's nationwide municipal elections.

"The recent conversion of Chora into a mosque may be due to Erdoğan's many problems, including his geopolitical power politics, his appeal to religio-nationalism to revive his electoral popularity after the March elections or his tactic to divert attention from Turkey's economic downturn," Kaymak said.

Many analysts have attributed the loss to AKP bleeding votes to the more Islamist-leaning New Welfare Party, which has pressured Erdogan over his response to the Israel-Hamas war and humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip.

Muslim worshippers at the mosque on Friday said they viewed its rededication as an Islamic site to be a national win for Turkey.

"This mosque is one of the symbols of the Conquest. We are proud and happy. There are very beautiful frescoes inside. They were also nicely renovated before they were closed. May it be good for our country and our nation," a bystander, Ahmet Öteyüzoğlu, told Turkish media.

"Thank God for these days. Not everyone has the opportunity in their lifetime," another bystander named Mehmet Çelik told the Turkish news service Anadolu Agency, in reference to having been able to pray at both the rededicated Hagia Sophia and Kariye Mosques.

However, Greece, the U.S. State Department and Orthodox Christian institutions worldwide have all criticized the decision to revert the structure into a mosque.

"I want to publicly express my intense dissatisfaction, interpreting the feelings of all Greek women and men, for the completely unnecessary conversion of a historic Byzantine temple, the Monastery of Chora, into a mosque. It is, I believe, an action that offends the rich history of Istanbul itself as a crossroads of cultures," Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis said shortly before leaving for Turkey for a planned meeting with Erdogan.

"We encourage the Turkish government to preserve and ensure access to sites and buildings that have hosted different religious communities in a way that respects their diverse histories," a State Department spokesperson said in response to questions from Greek media.

"The Turkish government's appropriation of both as the property of one faith group not only constitutes yet another sign of that government's contempt for Turkey's rich Orthodox Christian heritage but further imperils the religious freedom of the Ecumenical Patriarchate and the remaining Christians of that land," the Archons of the Ecumenical Patriarchate said in a statement.

© Religion News Service

How did Muslims and Orthodox Christians react to the reconversion?

Who was angered by the reconversion of Hagia Sophia in July 2020?

The decision to convert Hagia Sophia into a mosque has been seen as a political move by Erdogan to appeal to his Islamist-leaning base, with many analysts attributing the loss of his party's votes to the more Islamist-leaning New Welfare Party.

Erdogan's statement that "the resurrection of Hagia Sophia heralds the liberation of the al-Aqsa Mosque" has been interpreted as having religious undertones, with some seeing it as a call to action for Muslims worldwide.

What political motivations influenced Erdogan's decision to reconvert Hagia Sophia?

Erdogan's decision was influenced by Turkey's Islamic resurgence.

The conversion of Hagia Sophia into a mosque has also been criticized by the US State Department, which has encouraged the Turkish government to "preserve and ensure access to sites and buildings that have hosted different religious communities in a way that respects their diverse histories".

As a tour guide in Istanbul, it is essential to acknowledge the controversy surrounding the conversion of Hagia Sophia and provide context about its complex history as both a Byzantine cathedral and an Ottoman mosque.

Title:

Content: New rules come into force for the visit of Hagia Sophia Mosque in Turkey - Sunrise Gate
Tuesday 16 January 2024 2: 04 PM Cairo Cairo 24 °
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New rules come into effect for visiting Hagia Sophia mosque in Turkey
DBA
Published on: Tuesday 16 January 2024 - 1: 54 PM | Last updated on Tuesday 16 January 2024 - 1: 54 PM
The project for the Hagia Sophia mosque was closest to the heart of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan – but it was also the project that drew international criticism.
In the summer of 2020, Erdogan restored Hagia Sophia to be a mosque after it was originally a church, converted into an Ottoman mosque, converted into a museum.
At the time, Erdogan assured citizens that entry fees would be abolished, adding that the cultural edifice would remain open to everyone – Muslims or non-Muslims alike.
There will be another major change from January 15, with access to the Hagia Sophia restricted and visitors will have to pay fees again.
Turkish Tourism Minister Mehmet Nuri Arsoy hopes this will improve coexistence between religious and tourist visitors.
Arsoy said recently that tourist visitors are making noise and disrupting calm and prayer.
Until recently, visitors and worshippers were allowed to enter the interior of Hagia Sophia together, with barriers and signs keeping a certain distance between them.
However, from now on, worshippers and tourists will be introduced through different entrances.
Although worshippers can use the same entrances as before, tourists will be guided through an upstairs hallway.
According to Arsoy, tour guides will not be allowed to accompany visitors through the corridors, and earphones will be used instead.
“Our priority there is prayer, ” Arsoy said, noting that the building is a world cultural heritage site and should therefore remain open to all visitors around the world.
Zuleiha Duman, 29, who returned to Istanbul from Germany to see Hagia Sophia after it was converted into a mosque, said she found it taking away.
Welcoming the new rules, she said: “As long as the entrance fee isn ’ t too high, I think it ’ s acceptable. ”
“Why shouldn ’ t Turkey and the government take advantage of this place?
These funds can be channeled to preserve more religious places. ”
Hagia Sophia has been on the UNESCO World Heritage List as part of Istanbul ’ s history since 1985.
Built by Emperor Justinian, Hagia Sophia was the largest place of worship in Christianity for nearly a thousand years, it was the main church during the Byzantine Empire, and from the seventh century, the emperor was crowned inside.
After the Ottomans entered Constantinople (now Istanbul) in 1453, the Hagia Sophia was converted into a mosque.
On the orders of the founder of the Turkish Republic Mustafa Kemal Ataturk, the building was converted into a museum in 1934 until the summer of 2020.
Hagia Sophia is as symbolically important to Orthodox Christians around the world as St. Peter ’ s Basilica is to Catholics.
After the building was converted into a mosque, criticism poured in from the Greek Orthodox Church.
The UNESCO Foundation also criticized the decision without consultation.
For Erdogan, turning the place into a mosque was his “childhood dream, ” as he himself said, and pleasing to religious voters.
A few external changes were made at the time, for example, a green carpet was placed above the marble floor.
It seems clear that all these things did not detract from the popularity of this teacher.
According to official statistics, some 13.6 million people visited the Hagia Sophia landmark in 2022, not all of them from Europe.
The number of visitors from Indonesia in particular has risen, Hagia Sophia Imam Binyamin Topoglu told Turkey ’ s Anadolu news agency in 2023.
The amount of the fees has not yet been determined.
Tourism Minister Ersoy says the proceeds will be spent on cultural assets, for excavation or preservation of monuments such as the Hagia Sophia.
You might like it, too.
Share your comment

How did the role of Hagia Sophia change following the Ottoman conquest?

Hagia Sophia became a central Islamic religious site for centuries

Sultan Mehmed II converted Hagia Sophia into a mosque,

What was the original historical and cultural significance of Hagia Sophia in the Byzantine Empire?

When responding to upset tourists, tour guides can say "The Hagia Sophia is a historically and culturally significant site, and its conversion has sparked a range of emotions and reactions" to acknowledge the complexity of the issue.

To address concerns about the religious undertones of the conversion, tour guides can say "The Hagia Sophia has a rich history as both a Byzantine cathedral and an Ottoman mosque, and its current status reflects the complex and multifaceted nature of Turkish history and culture".

How did the role of Hagia Sophia change following the Ottoman conquest?

Hagia Sophia became a central Islamic religious site for centuries

What did the CALHSC president urge regarding decisions on Hagia Sophia?

Consider both Muslim and Christian voices

What was the original historical and cultural significance of Hagia Sophia in the Byzantine Empire?

Served as the central church of Byzantine Christianity,

How did the role of Hagia Sophia change following the Ottoman conquest?

Hagia Sophia became a central Islamic religious site for centuries

What did the CALHSC president urge regarding decisions on Hagia Sophia?

Consider both Muslim and Christian voices

What was the original historical and cultural significance of Hagia Sophia in the Byzantine Empire?

Served as the central church of Byzantine Christianity,

Tour guides can also use phrases such as "I'm here to provide information and answer your questions to the best of my ability, while also respecting the sensitivities and concerns of all our visitors" to maintain a respectful and inclusive tone.

By using these phrases and responses, tour guides can acknowledge the concerns of tourists while maintaining a neutral and respectful tone, and providing a positive and informative experience for all visitors.

The Turkish Tourism Minister, Mehmet Nuri Arsoy, has introduced measures to manage the coexistence of religious and tourist visitors at the Hagia Sophia, including restricted access and paid fees from January 15.

The introduction of separate entrances and guided tours using earphones can be seen as a strategy to manage discussions about sensitive topics, such as religious undertones and political motivations, by limiting direct interaction between tour guides and visitors.

To effectively manage discussions about sensitive topics like the Hagia Sophia conversion, tour guides should receive training and support on managing sensitive topics and creating inclusive and respectful dialogue.

Ultimately, the key to balancing the need to provide accurate information with the need to avoid taking a political or religious stance is for the guide to prioritize respect, sensitivity, and awareness of the site's complex history and cultural significance.


The 2020 reconversion of Hagia Sophia into a mosque by Turkish President Erdogan has been criticized by the Greek Orthodox Church as an attack on religious tolerance and freedom.

Erdogan's decision to convert Hagia Sophia into a mosque is seen as a move to appeal to his Islamist-leaning base.

Erdogan's statement about Hagia Sophia has been seen as a call to action for Muslims to liberate the al-Aqsa Mosque.

The US State Department has criticized the conversion of Hagia Sophia into a mosque, urging Turkey to preserve access to the site in a way that respects its diverse history.

As a tour guide in Istanbul, it's essential to acknowledge the controversy and complex history of Hagia Sophia, a site that has served as both a Byzantine cathedral and an Ottoman mosque.

Tour guides can say "The Hagia Sophia's conversion has sparked a range of emotions" to acknowledge the issue's complexity.

The Hagia Sophia reflects the complex nature of Turkish history and culture as both a former Byzantine cathedral and Ottoman mosque.

Tour guides can use phrases like "I'm here to provide information and answer questions while respecting all visitors' sensitivities" to maintain a respectful tone.

Tour guides can provide a positive experience by acknowledging concerns while maintaining a neutral tone.

Turkey's Tourism Minister, Mehmet Nuri Arsoy, has introduced measures, including restricted access and paid fees, for Hagia Sophia from January 15.

Separate entrances and guided earphone tours can limit discussions about sensitive topics by reducing direct interaction between guides and visitors.

Tour guides should receive training on managing sensitive topics to create inclusive and respectful dialogue.

The key to balancing information with neutrality is prioritizing respect, sensitivity, and awareness of the site's complex history and cultural significance.

The 2020 reconversion of Hagia Sophia into a mosque by Turkish President Erdogan has been criticized by the Greek Orthodox Church as an attack on religious tolerance and freedom.

Title:

Content: After Hagia Sophia, Turkey converts a second ancient Byzantine church into a mosque

Hundreds of worshippers filled the narrow streets of Istanbul's Fatih district on Friday to hear the sounds of Friday prayers ringing out from the newly inaugurated Kariye Mosque.

Once known as the Chora Church, the site spent the last 79 years as a museum. But it is now the latest structure to be converted back into a mosque by the government of Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, following the conversion of Hagia Sophia in 2020. While viewed as a triumph by many Turkish Muslims, the Greek Orthodox Church has decried it as an "ill-advised decision" that "makes a mockery of the Turkish government's commitment to religious tolerance and religious freedom."

Chora's conversion was announced shortly after Hagia Sophia's, but its opening for prayer was delayed by years of restoration work.

The showing for the first Friday prayers at Kariye was relatively quiet compared to Hagia Sophia, which drew hundreds of thousands who filled the streets with prayer rugs for blocks and blocks away from the building. By contrast, the crowd on Friday was relatively average for a mosque in one of Istanbul's more religiously conservative neighborhoods, where Friday worshippers frequently spill out onto the streets.

Both the Chora Church and Hagia Sophia are 4th-century Byzantine constructions. They spent nearly a millennium as Christian holy sites before being converted to mosques by the Ottomans after their conquest of Constantinople in the 15th century. Despite their conversions, they remained revered by Orthodox Christians. After the founding of a secular Turkish Republic in the early 20th century, the decision was made for both to be neither mosque nor church but simply museums.

"Both Hagia Sophia and Chora embodied Byzantine and Ottoman pasts, and they became symbols of co-existence and multi-faith living practices. Their conversion fundamentally implies a hierarchy, prioritizing the Islamic past over all other layers, Greek Orthodox, Armenian, Jewish, Syriac, et al," Dr. Özgür Kaymak, a lecturer and researcher on minority rights at Istanbul's MEF University, told Religion News Service in an email.

Rededicating the sites as mosques is more than just a status change. According to Islamic tradition, artwork of human figures are forbidden in places of prayer, while in Orthodox Churches, icons of Christ, saints and other biblical figures are a defining feature.

In Hagia Sophia, the mosaics of Jesus and Mary have been covered with curtains since the conversion. While Erdoğan promised Hagia Sophia would remain fully accessible and free to all visitors, Turkey reneged on that earlier this year, reimposing an entrance fee on tourists and relegating them to the upper level, while the main floor is exclusive to Muslim worshippers.

Observers have also criticized the Turkish Directorate of Religion's caretaking of the site, noting damage that did not exist when it was under the purview of the Ministry of Culture and Tourism.

Though Chora is significantly smaller than Hagia Sophia, it is home to some of the best-preserved examples of late-Byzantine art, including mosaics, icons and frescoes, and is considered a UNESCO World Heritage site.

"For us it's a very important place because it remembers our culture and our traditions here," Father Evangelos Markantonis, an Orthodox priest who was leading a group of theology students to Chora on Friday, told Religion News Service.

"Though we cannot venerate as Orthodox Christians, we have to try to find things we can be united on. Only with dialogue and good deeds can we continue our lives," Markantonis, who is also a professor at the University of Athens, said when asked about the controversy.

Erdoğan had long refused calls from his right to convert churches like Hagia Sophia and Chora, telling supporters in 2018 to fill the nearby Sultan Ahmet Mosque (also known in English as the Blue Mosque) before they talked about needing to pray in Hagia Sophia.

Nonetheless, he made an about-turn in 2020.

"My dear nation, the conquest of Istanbul and the conversion of the Hagia Sophia into a Mosque are among the most glorious chapters in Turkish history," Erdoğan said at the time in a speech inaugurating the Hagia Sophia as a mosque.

"This is the most honorable day that Islam has been looking forward to, Greek Constantinople has become Turkish Istanbul," he added, quoting the Turkish poet Nazim Hikmet.

"The resurrection of Hagia Sophia heralds the liberation of the al-Aqsa Mosque. The resurrection of Hagia Sophia is the footsteps of the will of Muslims across the world to come out of the interregnum," Erdoğan said in his concluding remarks.

Chora's opening as the Kariye Mosque comes just weeks after Erdoğan's Justice and Development Party (AKP) suffered its largest electoral defeat in two decades during Turkey's nationwide municipal elections.

"The recent conversion of Chora into a mosque may be due to Erdoğan's many problems, including his geopolitical power politics, his appeal to religio-nationalism to revive his electoral popularity after the March elections or his tactic to divert attention from Turkey's economic downturn," Kaymak said.

Many analysts have attributed the loss to AKP bleeding votes to the more Islamist-leaning New Welfare Party, which has pressured Erdogan over his response to the Israel-Hamas war and humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip.

Muslim worshippers at the mosque on Friday said they viewed its rededication as an Islamic site to be a national win for Turkey.

"This mosque is one of the symbols of the Conquest. We are proud and happy. There are very beautiful frescoes inside. They were also nicely renovated before they were closed. May it be good for our country and our nation," a bystander, Ahmet Öteyüzoğlu, told Turkish media.

"Thank God for these days. Not everyone has the opportunity in their lifetime," another bystander named Mehmet Çelik told the Turkish news service Anadolu Agency, in reference to having been able to pray at both the rededicated Hagia Sophia and Kariye Mosques.

However, Greece, the U.S. State Department and Orthodox Christian institutions worldwide have all criticized the decision to revert the structure into a mosque.

"I want to publicly express my intense dissatisfaction, interpreting the feelings of all Greek women and men, for the completely unnecessary conversion of a historic Byzantine temple, the Monastery of Chora, into a mosque. It is, I believe, an action that offends the rich history of Istanbul itself as a crossroads of cultures," Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis said shortly before leaving for Turkey for a planned meeting with Erdogan.

"We encourage the Turkish government to preserve and ensure access to sites and buildings that have hosted different religious communities in a way that respects their diverse histories," a State Department spokesperson said in response to questions from Greek media.

"The Turkish government's appropriation of both as the property of one faith group not only constitutes yet another sign of that government's contempt for Turkey's rich Orthodox Christian heritage but further imperils the religious freedom of the Ecumenical Patriarchate and the remaining Christians of that land," the Archons of the Ecumenical Patriarchate said in a statement.

© Religion News Service

How did Muslims and Orthodox Christians react to the reconversion?

Who was angered by the reconversion of Hagia Sophia in July 2020?

Erdogan's decision to convert Hagia Sophia into a mosque is seen as a move to appeal to his Islamist-leaning base.

Title:

Content: New rules come into force for the visit of Hagia Sophia Mosque in Turkey - Sunrise Gate
Tuesday 16 January 2024 2: 04 PM Cairo Cairo 24 °
Most Read
You might like it, too.
Share your opinion
Do you support calls to boycott some restaurants that have been proven to support the occupation soldiers?
New rules come into effect for visiting Hagia Sophia mosque in Turkey
DBA
Published on: Tuesday 16 January 2024 - 1: 54 PM | Last updated on Tuesday 16 January 2024 - 1: 54 PM
The project for the Hagia Sophia mosque was closest to the heart of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan – but it was also the project that drew international criticism.
In the summer of 2020, Erdogan restored Hagia Sophia to be a mosque after it was originally a church, converted into an Ottoman mosque, converted into a museum.
At the time, Erdogan assured citizens that entry fees would be abolished, adding that the cultural edifice would remain open to everyone – Muslims or non-Muslims alike.
There will be another major change from January 15, with access to the Hagia Sophia restricted and visitors will have to pay fees again.
Turkish Tourism Minister Mehmet Nuri Arsoy hopes this will improve coexistence between religious and tourist visitors.
Arsoy said recently that tourist visitors are making noise and disrupting calm and prayer.
Until recently, visitors and worshippers were allowed to enter the interior of Hagia Sophia together, with barriers and signs keeping a certain distance between them.
However, from now on, worshippers and tourists will be introduced through different entrances.
Although worshippers can use the same entrances as before, tourists will be guided through an upstairs hallway.
According to Arsoy, tour guides will not be allowed to accompany visitors through the corridors, and earphones will be used instead.
“Our priority there is prayer, ” Arsoy said, noting that the building is a world cultural heritage site and should therefore remain open to all visitors around the world.
Zuleiha Duman, 29, who returned to Istanbul from Germany to see Hagia Sophia after it was converted into a mosque, said she found it taking away.
Welcoming the new rules, she said: “As long as the entrance fee isn ’ t too high, I think it ’ s acceptable. ”
“Why shouldn ’ t Turkey and the government take advantage of this place?
These funds can be channeled to preserve more religious places. ”
Hagia Sophia has been on the UNESCO World Heritage List as part of Istanbul ’ s history since 1985.
Built by Emperor Justinian, Hagia Sophia was the largest place of worship in Christianity for nearly a thousand years, it was the main church during the Byzantine Empire, and from the seventh century, the emperor was crowned inside.
After the Ottomans entered Constantinople (now Istanbul) in 1453, the Hagia Sophia was converted into a mosque.
On the orders of the founder of the Turkish Republic Mustafa Kemal Ataturk, the building was converted into a museum in 1934 until the summer of 2020.
Hagia Sophia is as symbolically important to Orthodox Christians around the world as St. Peter ’ s Basilica is to Catholics.
After the building was converted into a mosque, criticism poured in from the Greek Orthodox Church.
The UNESCO Foundation also criticized the decision without consultation.
For Erdogan, turning the place into a mosque was his “childhood dream, ” as he himself said, and pleasing to religious voters.
A few external changes were made at the time, for example, a green carpet was placed above the marble floor.
It seems clear that all these things did not detract from the popularity of this teacher.
According to official statistics, some 13.6 million people visited the Hagia Sophia landmark in 2022, not all of them from Europe.
The number of visitors from Indonesia in particular has risen, Hagia Sophia Imam Binyamin Topoglu told Turkey ’ s Anadolu news agency in 2023.
The amount of the fees has not yet been determined.
Tourism Minister Ersoy says the proceeds will be spent on cultural assets, for excavation or preservation of monuments such as the Hagia Sophia.
You might like it, too.
Share your comment

What kind of domestic reaction did Erdogan's reconversion of Hagia Sophia receive?

What political motivations influenced Erdogan's decision to reconvert Hagia Sophia?

Erdogan's decision was influenced by Turkey's Islamic resurgence.

What kind of domestic reaction did Erdogan's reconversion of Hagia Sophia receive?

What political motivations influenced Erdogan's decision to reconvert Hagia Sophia?

Erdogan's decision was influenced by Turkey's Islamic resurgence.

Erdogan's statement about Hagia Sophia has been seen as a call to action for Muslims to liberate the al-Aqsa Mosque.

The US State Department has criticized the conversion of Hagia Sophia into a mosque, urging Turkey to preserve access to the site in a way that respects its diverse history.

As a tour guide in Istanbul, it's essential to acknowledge the controversy and complex history of Hagia Sophia, a site that has served as both a Byzantine cathedral and an Ottoman mosque.

How did the role of Hagia Sophia change following the Ottoman conquest?

Hagia Sophia became a central Islamic religious site for centuries

Sultan Mehmed II converted Hagia Sophia into a mosque,

What was the original historical and cultural significance of Hagia Sophia in the Byzantine Empire?

Served as the central church of Byzantine Christianity,

Tour guides can say "The Hagia Sophia's conversion has sparked a range of emotions" to acknowledge the issue's complexity.

The Hagia Sophia reflects the complex nature of Turkish history and culture as both a former Byzantine cathedral and Ottoman mosque.

How did the role of Hagia Sophia change following the Ottoman conquest?

Hagia Sophia became a central Islamic religious site for centuries

Sultan Mehmed II converted Hagia Sophia into a mosque,

What was the original historical and cultural significance of Hagia Sophia in the Byzantine Empire?

Served as the central church of Byzantine Christianity,

How did the role of Hagia Sophia change following the Ottoman conquest?

Hagia Sophia became a central Islamic religious site for centuries

Sultan Mehmed II converted Hagia Sophia into a mosque,

What was the original historical and cultural significance of Hagia Sophia in the Byzantine Empire?

Served as the central church of Byzantine Christianity,

Tour guides can use phrases like "I'm here to provide information and answer questions while respecting all visitors' sensitivities" to maintain a respectful tone.

Tour guides can provide a positive experience by acknowledging concerns while maintaining a neutral tone.

Turkey's Tourism Minister, Mehmet Nuri Arsoy, has introduced measures, including restricted access and paid fees, for Hagia Sophia from January 15.

Separate entrances and guided earphone tours can limit discussions about sensitive topics by reducing direct interaction between guides and visitors.

Tour guides should receive training on managing sensitive topics to create inclusive and respectful dialogue.

The key to balancing information with neutrality is prioritizing respect, sensitivity, and awareness of the site's complex history and cultural significance.