On December 5, Japan’s Crown Prince Fumihito and Crown Princess Kiko continued their visit to Türkiye, taking part in several cultural events in Istanbul, including a noteworthy visit to the historic Hagia Sophia.
The royal couple arrived in Ankara, the Turkish capital, late on December 3, marking the beginning of their first official visit to the country.
During their stay in Istanbul, Turkish Culture and Tourism Minister Mehmet Nuri Ersoy provided insights into the historical and cultural significance of Hagia Sophia. This iconic structure, first established as a cathedral in 537 AD under the Byzantine Empire, has long stood as a testament to Byzantine architectural achievements with its impressive dome and intricate mosaics.
Over the centuries, the site has undergone significant transformations, having been converted into a mosque following the Ottoman conquest in 1453, later designated as a museum in 1935, and most recently reverted to a mosque under controversy in 2020 under the leadership of President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan.
