Fifteenth International Conference on The Inclusive Museum

Abstract

In July 2020, Hagia Sophia Museum in Istanbul, Turkey was transformed into a working mosque. Many celebrated while numerous others criticized the change of status. This paper examines the range of reactions to the conversion of Hagia Sophia, from anxieties about site preservation and the protection of Christian imagery, to accusations of disrespect for modern concepts of secularism and universal heritage, to celebrations by those who had long called to see Hagia Sophia function as a mosque again. What exactly was at stake in this change of status? This paper uses Hagia Sophia’s conversion as an opportunity to interrogate the different needs embodied in the “religious” and “heritage” uses of historic places. What does a museum space offer that a religious one cannot (and vice versa)? Using on-site observations and engaging with relevant scholarship on religion and museums, I identify and contrast the different possibilities and limitations presented by Hagia Sophia as a museum and as a mosque. In particular, I focus on how the notion of inclusiveness operates differently through these two types of spaces. The conflict over Hagia Sophia’s status and use, I contend, points to some of the unique management and preservation challenges presented by religious forms of cultural heritage. I conclude by identifying factors that should be considered when addressing such challenges.