300-Year-Old Historic Mosque Damaged in Elazığ Earthquake Awaits Restoration
Despite passing years and held tenders, the centuries-old place of worship has not been repaired yet.
The 300-year-old Aksaray Mosque in Elazığ, which suffered heavy damage in the January 24, 2020 earthquake, has been waiting to be restored even though six years have passed.
Damage Process of the Historic Structure
Located in Aksaray Neighborhood, one of the oldest residential areas in downtown Elazığ, the three-century-old Aksaray Mosque suffered heavy damage in the earthquake on January 24, 2020, and was closed to worship. Built by İshak Pasha in the past, the historic structure was left to its fate after the earthquake.
Tenders and Delayed Works
Aksaray Neighborhood Headman Özcan Bal stated that the restoration process of the mosque turned into a saga. Stating that tenders were held multiple times despite six years having passed, Bal conveyed that the appropriation was ready and the team that won the tender came and did some work, but then left for somewhere else.
Fire and Ruined Condition
It was stated that a serious fire broke out in the mosque before the earthquakes centered in Kahramanmaraş, and as a result of this incident, the wooden parts of the structure were completely burned. Together with other demolition conditions in the neighborhood, the region generally took on a ruined appearance.
Inspection by the Directorate of Foundations
It was noted that the team from the Regional Directorate of Foundations inspected the mosque and reported that the structure contains four arches and cannot be demolished due to its historic nature. It was stated that the authorities conveyed that the restoration would be carried out by themselves.