Restoration efforts within Istanbul’s renowned Grand Bazaar have sparked controversy among shopkeepers as restoration teams have drilled into walls and installed thick beams.
While a significant portion of the restoration work in the Grand Bazaar has been completed, ongoing operations persist in certain areas. This 563-year-old historical landmark, boasting over 4,000 shops, has seen substantial progress in infrastructure, installations, flooring, and main wall renovations nearing completion.
However, the recent intervention in a “Şark Kahvesi” section has stirred debate. Shopkeepers allege that about a month ago, the restoration team pierced the walls of this section, subsequently installing thick support equipment between opposite walls at these locations.
İhsan Sarı, a member of the Scientific Committee overseeing the Grand Bazaar Restoration Program, explained that the iron support equipment was implemented as a precaution against potential earthquakes, mitigating static risks in the area.
In response, shopkeepers have voiced discontent, arguing that the installed equipment not only constitutes visual pollution but also damages the walls of this historically significant structure.
