As the former capital of Byzantium, old Constantinople was an important center of the Christian religion that at one stage even threated to topple Rome. Despite the hundreds of years that have passed during that time, many Christian and iconic buildings are still standing. As the Turkish government looks to emphasize religious tourism in the country, the importance of these buildings is more highlighted than ever before. Let’s take a look at five examples.
Christian Sites and Places in Istanbul
Greek Orthodox Patriarchate of Istanbul
During the reign of Emperor Constantine over Constantinople, its religious capital became the Fener Patriarchate or the Greek/Ecumenical Patriarchate. Although Christianity may have been taken over during the fall of Constantinople, Sultan Mehmed II ordered for the restoration of the Patriarchate.
It still holds significance up to this day, being the recognized global headquarters of the Greek Orthodox Church. A visit to the Fener Patriarchate will let you see artifacts and relics of religious importance. Dedicated to Saint George, it is open every day but strict screening of visitors takes place.
Hagia Sophia Museum
The Hagia Sophia Museum was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its beauty and historical significance. It dates back to the year 360, having been rebuilt and renovated over the years, with its function evolving from an Orthodox Church to an Islam Mosque and to its current state, a world-renowned museum.
The rectangular structure of the Hagia Sophia boasts of elaborate Byzantine architecture that is the best of that era. Its magnitude of size is complemented by the intricacy of its edifice and its religious mosaics, some of which were stolen in the 1204 Latin invasion and damaged in the 1894 earthquake.
St. Savior in Chora
The Church of St. Savior in Chora is one of the most exquisite monuments during the Palaelogos Dynasty. It was in 4th century when the first church was built in the site although the structure that stands now was built in 11th century while its adornments and embellishments were finished only in the 14th century.
Its outside appearance may look plain albeit imposing, but once you get inside, you’ll be welcomed by marble covered walls and magnificent mosaics. The mosaics are elaborate depictions of significant religious events such as the Nativity, the Massacre of the Innocents ordered by King Herod and the Death of the Virgin Mary.
Hagia Eirene
The Hagia Eirene is found inside the Topkapi Palace complex and holds a historical and religious significance. Records hold that the Hagia Eirene was the first Christian church built in Constantinople, dating back to the 6th century.
Even when it was taken over by the Topkapi Palace, Hagia Eirene was spared from being turned into a mosque unlike its Byzantine contemporaries. However, it was turned into an armory during the Turkish period. At present, it is open to the public as a museum and possibly its most interesting feature is the 8th century mosaic of a rather melancholy black cross against a gold background.
3 More articles about religious sites in Turkey
- Turkey has many luring aspects of which some are the Mediterranean sun and gorgeous beaches. However, thanks to its colourful history, religious tourism in Turkey is increasing. In specific, the western world is keen to complete Christian pilgrimages to former biblical sites, scattered in abundance over the country. Read more
- If you’re a devoted Christian, you would surely want to see the House of Virgin Mary, which is believed to have been the last home of the Virgin before she died. Records hold that Mary was delegated to the care of John the Baptist by Jesus Christ after his resurrection; and John chose to bring Mary to Ephesus where he also planned to spread the teachings of Christ. Read more
- Colourful balloons, fairytale chimneys, beautiful steeds, cave hotels and yet the land of Cappadocia offers even more surprises, with its fascinating churches.There are as many as 600 churches made out of the soft rock that dot the Cappadocia landscape, but there may well be many more yet to be unearthed.
Image Credits : “Patriarchate Constantinopolis” by J. Oliver-Bonjoch and “Chora Church Constantinople 2007 panorama 002” and “Hagia Eirene Constantinople 2007” by Gryffindor
