Hodegon Monastery, Byzantine monastery in Constantinople, Turkey
Hodegon Monastery was a Byzantine monastery built east of Hagia Sophia, centered around a sacred well that brought comfort to many people. The complex contained religious buildings and served as an important center of faith in medieval Constantinople.
An imperial patron named Pulcheria founded the monastery in the early 5th century as a major shrine dedicated to Mary in the city. The monastery maintained its religious importance for hundreds of years until the Ottoman conquest of Constantinople.
The monastery took its name from its healing purpose, as people arrived seeking relief from physical ailments, particularly those who were blind. The place embodied the faith of the city's residents in divine intervention and drew visitors from across Constantinople.
The remains of the monastery are located near Gülhane Park, where you can observe Byzantine architectural features. It is best to visit during daylight hours to see the stone structures clearly.
The monastery housed an image called the Hodegetria, said to be painted by Saint Luke and decorated with precious stones including emeralds and sapphires. This rare artwork drew pilgrims from across the Byzantine world to visit the site.
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