A luxury spa operating within a 1,500-year-old Byzantine cistern adjacent to the iconic Hagia Sophia has sparked outrage among locals and cultural preservationists in Istanbul. The spa, located in the basement of the Hilton hotel, has been accused of compromising the integrity of this significant cultural heritage site.
Key Takeaways
- The spa, Navitas Spa Sarnıç, was operating without proper permits.
- The Fatih Municipality has sealed the spa following public outcry and legal action.
- The cistern is classified as a Group I cultural asset, subject to strict conservation regulations.
- The ownership structure of the cistern complicates restoration efforts.
Background of the Spa
The Navitas Spa Sarnıç was marketed as a unique experience, blending ancient architecture with modern luxury. It offered a range of treatments, including Swedish massages, aromatherapy, and specialized couples packages. However, the spa’s operations raised alarms when it was revealed that significant modifications had been made to the ancient structure without the necessary approvals.
Legal Actions and Community Response
In 2023, the Turkish Ministry of Culture and Tourism filed a lawsuit against the spa following numerous complaints from the public. Investigations by the Fatih Municipality uncovered unauthorized alterations, including a glass addition to the entrance and the installation of a jacuzzi-style pool, massage rooms, saunas, and hammams within the historic cistern.
The local community reacted strongly, expressing concerns over the preservation of their cultural heritage. The Fatih Municipality’s investigation concluded that the spa’s operations posed a serious threat to the integrity of the ancient site, leading to its immediate closure.
Cultural Significance of the Cistern
The cistern, located in the Cankurtaran neighborhood, is classified as a Group I cultural asset and falls within the Sultanahmet Square Urban Archaeological Site. This designation means it is protected under strict conservation laws, which aim to preserve Istanbul’s rich historical and cultural landscape.
In 2022, the Conservation Areas Board ordered the removal of illegal modifications within six months. However, the spa continued its operations, prompting further legal action in December 2023. The Ministry of Culture and Tourism has since rejected the spa’s request for tax exemption due to ongoing violations.
Ownership Complications
One of the challenges in addressing the situation is the complex ownership structure of the cistern, which has nearly 60 co-owners, including public institutions and private entities. This fragmentation has made it difficult to reach a consensus on restoration efforts. The Regional Directorate of Institutions, which owns only a fraction of the cistern, has stated that it cannot initiate restoration projects without unanimous approval from all co-owners.
Moving Forward
As legal proceedings continue, the Ministry of Culture and Tourism is intensifying efforts to ensure the removal of illegal constructions and the restoration of the cistern. The incident has ignited a broader debate about the balance between tourism, business interests, and the preservation of historic landmarks in Istanbul, a city renowned for its cultural significance.
The controversy surrounding the luxury spa serves as a reminder of the ongoing struggle to protect cultural heritage in the face of commercial exploitation. As Istanbul continues to attract millions of tourists each year, the challenge remains to safeguard its historical sites for future generations.