Liebherr provides precise and safe lifting operations for Hagia Sofia restoration

The Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque, one of the world's most iconic landmarks with 1,500 years of history, is currently undergoing restoration. To carry out the highly sensitive work, a Liebherr 280 HC-L luffing jib crane has been installed, becoming a temporary but striking addition to Istanbul's skyline. The luffing jib crane enables precise and safe lifting operations in the challenging environment between the mosque's minarets.

Atilla Dural, a Turkish tower crane rental company and a Liebherr partner since the 1980s, is providing a Liebherr 280 HC-L luffing jib crane for this extraordinary project. Managing Director Turgay Dural explained: "In projects as sensitive and historically significant as the Hagia Sophia Mosque, technical competence must be matched by absolute reliability. Even the smallest error could have serious consequences, which is why we chose the Liebherr 280 HC-L. Liebherr gives us complete confidence and technical support which is essential for flawless execution."

Long-standing partnership

For Atilla Dural, contributing to the Hagia Sophia restoration is both a responsibility and a source of pride. "Our long-standing partnership with Liebherr has enabled us to play an active role in many prestigious projects, including the 1915 Çanakkale Bridge," Dural continues. "In such projects, options are limited, technical expertise, and quality are decisive factors. With Liebherr, we know we can deliver to the highest standards."

Special foundation work and sensitive lifting operations

Due to the historic significance of the site, installation of the crane required unique ground techniques. Sales Manager Ömer Suiçmez explained: "The crane was erected without underground excavation, using an anchored ground system based on special static calculations. After site analyses, X-ray tests and approval by the scientific committee, the crane was installed on a purpose-built platform. The entire process took around four to five months."

The decision to use a luffing jib crane was key to meeting the project's unique challenges. "The Liebherr 280 HC-L allows lifting operations between the mosque's minarets with precision and safety," said Suiçmez. "High tourist traffic, pedestrians moving under the crane, and the need for absolute accuracy in lifting and lowering meant that this crane was the ideal choice. Its ability to operate at steep angles combined with high load capacity offered the flexibility we needed in such a sensitive environment."

The restoration of this iconic landmark proves again that Liebherr cranes are equipped to handle extraordinary conditions and sensitive construction environments.