14.04.2026 19:04
Two Greek tourists were arrested for opening a Byzantine flag and taking photos inside the Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque. It was determined that the flag displayed the phrase 'Be Orthodox or die.'
Two Greek tourists who took photos by opening a Byzantine flag inside the Hagia Sophia Mosque were detained and arrested following the intervention of security forces.
THEY SMUGGLED IT IN BY HIDING IT IN THEIR COATS
Around 3:00 PM on April 9, a group of five Greek tourists entered the Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque. The group, which passed through a body search, was allowed inside through the controlled gate.
After a while, one of the tourists in the group, on the upper floor open to visitors, took out a Byzantine flag with a double-headed eagle figure from inside his coat and opened it. After the photo was taken, the flag was given to the other person next to him. After he also took photos, security forces intervened in the situation.
NOTICEABLE PHRASE ON THE FLAG
Upon examination, it was determined that the flag bore the phrase "Be Orthodox or die."
TWO TOURISTS ARRESTED
Following the incident, 35-year-old Mazis Michael and 42-year-old Kostantina Mazi were detained by police teams. The suspects, after being referred to the Istanbul Courthouse, were arrested on charges of "inciting or insulting the public to hatred or hostility" and sent to prison.