Türkiye Restores 73 Earthquake-Damaged Monuments to Their Former Glory

Bassyonni

ago 2 hours

In the wake of the February 6 earthquakes, Türkiye has launched a significant initiative to restore its earthquake-damaged monuments. This ambitious project aims to revive the cultural and architectural heritage of the nation, with a focus on structural safety and historical fidelity.

Türkiye Restores 73 Earthquake-Damaged Monuments

The General Directorate of Foundations, under Türkiye’s Ministry of Culture and Tourism, announced the successful restoration of 73 properties. These culturally significant sites, known as vakif eserleri, include mosques, inns, and social complexes that have played a crucial role in the country’s urban landscape for centuries.

Extent of Damage and Recovery Efforts

Following the earthquakes centered in Kahramanmaras, a total of 377 foundation cultural properties were identified as affected. Immediate damage assessment studies allowed authorities to craft a comprehensive recovery plan. This plan prioritized not just repairs but also a holistic revival of the monuments.

Focus on original architectural features
Reinforcement against future risks
Integration of cultural significance in restoration

Regional Progress in Restoration

Across various regions, restoration efforts have progressed significantly. In Gaziantep alone, twelve monuments have been fully restored and reopened. Kahramanmaras is also witnessing the revival of several buildings, with more set to welcome visitors by Ramadan.

Kilis: Multiple monuments restored; further openings planned.
Hatay: Significant share of restoration efforts with many landmarks reopened.
Malatya and Elazig: Completed restorations reported alongside ongoing projects.
Sanliurfa and Adana: Reopened monuments with additional sites under restoration.

Restoration Beyond Affected Provinces

The restoration initiative extends beyond the earthquake-impacted areas. Throughout 2025, efforts have been made to restore over a hundred foundation properties across Türkiye. This demonstrates a national commitment to preserving cultural heritage regardless of geographic challenges.

Future Outlook and Commitment

Sinan Aksu, the General Director of Foundations, emphasized the urgency of the work following a national disaster. Teams worked diligently to ensure that restored monuments retain their original characteristics while enhancing structural integrity. A symbolic moment in this restoration journey was the reopening of the historic Habib-i Neccar Mosque in Hatay on December 27, attended by President Recep Tayyip Erdogan.

Looking ahead, further restoration projects are expected to be completed by the first quarter of 2026, ensuring that Türkiye’s rich cultural legacy remains a vital part of its urban tapestry.