Wind of Maintenance in Istanbul’s Historical Mosques: Revitalization with Teams and Natural Materials
Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality (IMM) continues its routine maintenance and cleaning works at an increasing pace in 44 historical mosques that adorn the city’s skyline during the Three Months period and on the occasion of Regaip Kandili. In a wide area extending from Eyüpsultan Mosque to Süleymaniye Mosque, from Fatih Mosque to Şehzade Mosque, work is carried out with natural materials and under the supervision of expert restorers for the cleaning and maintenance of the mosques. This effort aims not only for aesthetic cleaning, but also for the preservation of the historical texture and long-lasting maintenance.
IMM Heritage teams continue their routine maintenance and cleaning work in historical mosques with a team of 150 people. Not only classical mosques, but also buildings such as Büyük Çamlıca Mosque, Ataşehir Mimar Sinan Mosque and Marmara Theology Mosque, known as the three largest new mosques of Istanbul, are also included in the maintenance programs. In addition, intensively used areas such as Nusretiye Mosque, Nuruosmaniye Mosque and Sultanahmet Firuzağa Mosque, mosques in the neighborhoods and tourist spots are also checked periodically. Thus, the mosque is passed on to future generations as a living heritage rather than being restored.
IT IS DONE UNDER THE SUPERVISION OF EXPERT RESTORATORS IN THEIR FIELD
Routine maintenance and cleaning works are carried out using natural materials that do not harm historical buildings. Material selection and techniques to be applied are determined under the supervision of experienced restorers. This approach is vital to prevent wear and tear and ensure long-term durability while preserving the original texture of the mosques. In addition, IBB Heritage’s work includes routine cleaning, maintenance and repair processes not only for mosques but also for hundreds of tombs and burial grounds. This multifaceted effort focuses on the holistic preservation of the city’s cultural heritage.
In line with the 2016 protocol between IMM, the General Directorate of Foundations and the Presidency of Religious Affairs, routine maintenance and cleaning works carried out in 39 mosques until 2019 are currently continuing in 44 mosques. This protocol establishes a reliable and sustainable restoration ecosystem by acting on shared responsibility and standards.
CONSTRUCTION AND REVIVAL MOBILIZATION: CONSTRUCTION-CONSTRUCTION FOCUSING ON 14 NEW MOSQUES OUT OF 23 MOSQUES
IMM’s “Building and Reviving” campaign covers the city’s new and old mosques. Within the scope of a construction and renovation program covering 23 mosques, 14 new mosques were built. Additionally, the renovation and maintenance of 3 mosques have been completed; The construction process for 2 mosques is progressing and the reconstruction work of 1 mosque is ongoing. In this context, by restoring old mosques, safe and functional spaces that meet modern needs are also created. The restoration works honor traditional architecture and integrate with contemporary building technologies.
PROTECTION THROUGH NATURAL MATERIAL METHODS
The use of natural materials replaces chemical abrasives on mosque surfaces. Thus, stone and marble surfaces are cleaned without losing their original texture, and areas that need maintenance are treated carefully. This method ensures long-term durability even in mosques with heavy visitor flows. Teams specially formulate cleaning solutions to prevent chemical and mechanical damage to surfaces.
DAILY OPERATIONS: RHYTHM OF MAINTENANCE AND IMPLEMENTATION PROCESSES
What happens in daily operation? The first step is to establish area control and a safe work area for teams to protect surfaces from damage. Then, natural detergents, non-iron washing techniques and environmentally friendly cleaning products are used in the basic steps of cleaning. Areas that require re-polishing and maintenance repair from time to time are planned and implemented by expert restorers. These stages provide both visual freshness and textural durability.
SOCIAL AND CULTURAL IMPACT: THE ROLE OF MOSQUES IN SOCIAL COOPERATION
Studies are not limited to physical care only. Mosque communities also provide an important infrastructure in terms of tourism and education. Public openings of restoration projects create employment opportunities for local tradesmen and volunteers and provide a safe, clean and aesthetic environment in public spaces around mosques. Additionally, these processes strengthen the heritage awareness of city residents and increase awareness of Cultural Heritage Management.
CONTINUOUS IMPROVEMENT THROUGH THE EYES OF EXPERTS: PROTOCOLS AND STANDARDS of IBB Miras
IBB Miras keeps strict surveillance and quality control processes. The standards used in restoration and maintenance work have been developed specifically for historical buildings. Teams prepare detailed maintenance schedules and risk analyzes for each mosque. Routine checks are designed to detect damage caused by external factors in a timely manner. In addition, occupational safety protocols and environmental protection practices are integral parts of these processes.
BEING A PART OF URBAN SERVICES: APPROACH WITH DATA
Programs carried out under the coordination of IMM include data-based decisions, not just visual maintenance. Decisions such as how often maintenance will be carried out in which mosque, which materials and techniques will be used, and which areas are densely populated are determined by routine inspections and evaluation meetings. Data forms the basis for more effective resource use and safer work in future projects.
PERSONAL OPINIONS: THE DYNAMIC FLOW OF RESTORATION
Each mosque carries the knowledge accumulated in its own history. Restoration teams create solutions that preserve historical context and meet modern needs. This balance prioritizes the spirit of the architecture and the visitor experience. Safe passage plans, especially during the holy periods and intense visits, smooth the flow of visitors and ensure that the places of worship remain calm and safe.
NOT THE RESULT: A SUSTAINABLE MAINTENANCE MODEL
IMM’s approach is not just temporary cleaning or superficial intervention. The sustainable care model acts with the goal of long-term preservation. In this context, natural materials, expert supervision and comprehensive care plans come together. Thus, Istanbul’s mosques are preserved not only with their current cleanliness, but also as a strong heritage for future generations. The equipment and techniques used in the maintenance of mosques are optimized with fit-for-purpose designs; This is indispensable for both security and aesthetics.
