In an interview with Tv100, Department of Architecture faculty member Dr. İlknur Türkoğlu provided information about the controversial use of the 1500-year-old cistern located next to Hagia Sophia. Türkoğlu explained that the cistern, built during the Byzantine Period, was actually part of the water system used in Istanbul 1500 years ago, but was restored by the tourism business in which the cistern was located in 2022 and converted into a pool-massage salon. Stating that reuse is a method used in the protection of historical structures, Türkoğlu said, "The rules and principles regarding the restoration and re-functioning of historical structures are regulated in our laws. What created controversy about the cistern in question is the wrong and damaging arrangements made without heeding the warnings of the ministry and the municipality. Unfortunately, this structure is not the only example in Istanbul. The structure must be protected in a way that does not disrupt its historical value and structural integrity."
