A delegation of journalists from Turkmenistan visited the Hagia Sophia in the Turkish city of Trabzon as part of a professional tour aimed at strengthening cultural ties between the two countries.
The Turkmen delegation included representatives from publications such as Business Turkmenistan, Turkmenportal, Orient, News Central Asia, Atavatan Türkmenistan, the magazine Medeniýet we Syýahat, and the TV channel Türkmenistan TV4.
The Hagia Sophia was built in the 13th century during the rule of the Empire of Trebizond and is one of the most significant Byzantine monuments on the Black Sea coast. In 1964, the building was converted into a museum and later included on the UNESCO World Heritage list. Its unique architecture blends Byzantine traditions with local construction techniques. Inside, 13th-century frescoes depicting biblical scenes have been preserved.
During the tour, the journalists learned about the history of the church and its architectural features, which reflect various historical periods. The building has undergone numerous transformations: after the Ottoman conquest of Trabzon in the 15th century, it was converted into a mosque, and in the 20th century, it became a museum, continuing to serve as a vital cultural center.
After visiting the church, the delegation proceeded to the historic Ortamahalle district. Known as the “middle quarter,” this area is a vivid example of Ottoman urban planning. Narrow cobbled streets and traditional Ottoman houses create the atmosphere of an old city. Ortamahalle is also home to the Church of St. George, which has survived since the Byzantine era. This church remains a key element of the district’s historical and cultural heritage, reflecting its centuries-old history and the diversity of its religious traditions.
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