“Balıklıgöl Returns to Normalcy: Latest News from Turkey”
Balıklıgöl, a significant heritage site in Şanlıurfa, Turkey, has been undergoing extensive restoration and strengthening works. The project was initiated by the Şanlıurfa Governorship, Metropolitan Municipality, and the Cultural Heritage Preservation Regional Board.
Clearing the water from Balıklıgöl allowed for a thorough cleanup of the area, and activities have been reinitiated as life resumes. Now the focus has shifted to fortifying the space to make it more resilient to the effects of time and wear.
The project involves repairing the dome of the Halil-ur Rahman mosque and associated Ottoman structures, including the courtyard and ablution areas. Additionally, the stone walkways surrounding the lake have been renovated, and the Balıklıgöl Museum has been upgraded to showcase the rich history of the region.
The restoration work has been accelerated in the wake of the pandemic, as tourists are not currently visiting the site at the same frequency as before. The goal is to finish the works before mass tourist groups return and protect the historic site for future generations.
The Balıklıgöl restoration project reflects the Turkish government’s commitment to the preservation of cultural heritage and the promotion of tourism in the country. The country has a rich history and a diverse portfolio of cultural sites that attract visitors from all over the world. Therefore, the restoration of heritage sites will encourage tourists to explore and discover the country’s history, culture, and natural beauty, ultimately providing economic benefits to the country.
