One of the most important historic and cultural landmarks of İstanbul, Topkapı Palace, is under risk of collapse as it slides towards the sea due to major infrastructure projects in its vicinity, a report revealed on Sunday.
Ömer Erbil from Hürriyet reported that the alarming cracks in the walls and ceilings of the historic palace, which was the residence of Ottoman sultans for centuries, are the result of a slide towards the Marmara Sea.
Expert reports point to the impact of projects such as Marmaray and the Avrasya Tunnel as well as earthquakes for the damage to the base of the palace and the risk of collapse.
The ministry of Culture and Tourism has reportedly initiated a restoration project to save the palace, which is one of the most visited tourist attractions in İstanbul.