Gli (union of love in Turkish) was Hagia Sofia's famous resident cat. Gli became famous after she was filmed back in 2009 with Barack Obama, then president of the United States.
Earlier this year, Hagia Sophia transitioned from being a museum back to a mosque, after a Turkish court in July revoked its status as a museum.
After this transition, Turkish authorities assured the public that the Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque would remain Gli’s home.
Sadly, last week the cat died at the age of 16 in the veterinary clinic in Levent where she was getting treatment.
I am sorry to lose Gli. Hagia Sophia's cat Gli, who has been treated in a private veterinary clinic in Levent since Sept. 24, unfortunately, passed away due to old age. We will never forget you, Gli.
Istanbul Governor Ali Yerlikaya said on his Twitter account.
