Turkish government is planning to open Istanbul’s famous Hagia Sophia to prayers on July 15, if the Council of State, the highest consultative body of the state, gives the green light in a session slated for July 2, news website Habertürk reported on June 16.
The issue of Hagia Sophia, currently a museum, was discussed during the ruling Justice and Development Party (AKP)’s Central Executive Board (MYK) meeting on June 15, Habertürk said.
During the meeting, AKP executives presented President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan with findings from public opinion surveys. As a majority of the public, including the main opposition Republican People’s Party (CHP) voters, expressed their support for the opening of Hagia Sophia for worship, the AKP is planning to actualize this if the Council of State rules in its favor, according to Habertürk.