Ersoy: First phases of Haydarpasa and Sirkeci projects opening in 2027

Culture and Tourism Minister Mehmet Nuri Ersoy stated that they are targeting the opening of the first phases of the Haydarpasa and Sirkeci projects in 2027. Speaking to the press following the opening program of the Antalya Culture Road Festival, Ersoy explained that unexpected conditions were encountered in the registered historical structures, and therefore the load-bearing system and conservation needs of each building were evaluated separately.

Ersoy noted that the main station building in Haydarpasa will retain its transportation function. He added that a large library, manuscript areas, exhibition halls, art and design studios, and multipurpose culture-art spaces are being prepared alongside it. Stating "we are aiming to bring Anatolia's first archaeology museum to life here," Ersoy said that with an archeopark and open event areas, Istanbul will gain a new cultural center.

Defining a different concept for Sirkeci, Minister Ersoy said, "we are creating a migration museum here." Ersoy noted that migrations to Europe, arrivals from the Balkans to Turkey, and the historical railway lines hold an important place in the memory of this area.

Addressing the work at Hagia Sophia, Ersoy reported that approximately 3,000 tons of mud and rubble have been extracted from underground so far, and historical tunnels, water channels, and vaults have been documented. Noting that a four-chambered hypogeum in the northeast section is being investigated, Ersoy said that opening appropriate sections to visitors depends on scientific examinations and safety conditions.