Speaking on the privately owned MEGA Television channel in Greece, the Greek Minister expressed the hope that the information is untrue, noting that such a move would be unacceptable.
"The world heritage monuments have a cultural and historical identity. Since 1935, when Kemal Ataturk signed a decree turning Hagia Sophia into a museum no one dared to consider changing its use," he said, adding that "Hagia Sophia could become again a place of religious worship only as a Christian church. This was the reason it was built. This is the monument's identity."
He also underlined that the ministry of culture gives a lot of money to preserve, restore and highlight historical Muslim monuments across Greece, stressing that "we believe that Turkey will not consider introducing such issues in its domestic political problems".
Panagiotopoulos also said that the neighbouring country's government should display prudence and handle such issues with a measure of seriousness, adding that the international community and the international law have a specific position on relevant issues that cannot be violated by anyone.
Referring to the opening hours of the 33 most visited Greek museums and archaeological sites, he said that as of April 1 they will be open from 08:00 to 20:00.
He also referred to the exhibition on the Greco-Roman Civilization at the Presidential Building in Rome, noting that it was the foundation of the European culture. (AMNA)
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