Two Greek tourists released pending trial over flag incident at Hagia Sophia

Two Greek tourists who were arrested after displaying a Byzantine-era flag inside Hagia Sophia Mosque in Istanbul have been released after spending approximately two months in prison, according to Turkish media reports.

The incident took place in April when a group of five tourists from Greece visited the historic site, one of Türkiye’s most important cultural and religious landmarks.

According to the investigation, one of the visitors allegedly unfolded a flag bearing the double-headed eagle, a symbol historically associated with the Byzantine Empire, while in an area of Hagia Sophia open to visitors. After posing for photographs, the flag was reportedly handed to another member of the group, who also took photographs before security personnel intervened.

Authorities later stated that the flag contained the phrase “Be Orthodox or Die,” prompting a criminal investigation.

Two members of the group, identified as 35-year-old Mazis Michael and 42-year-old Kostantina Mazi, were arrested and subsequently charged with publicly insulting a segment of society, an offense carrying a potential prison sentence of up to three years under Turkish law.

Prosecutors argued in the indictment that Hagia Sophia represents a significant symbol of Turkish history, sovereignty and cultural heritage. The indictment further alleged that the display of the flag inside the mosque was intended to insult religious and national values.

Following two months of pre-trial detention, a court ordered the release of the two defendants while legal proceedings continue.

The case has drawn attention in both Türkiye and Greece due to the historical and religious sensitivities associated with Hagia Sophia, a UNESCO World Heritage site that functions as a mosque and remains one of Istanbul’s most visited landmarks.