Chora Church, Byzantine mosque in Fatih, Turkey
Chora Church is a Byzantine structure in the Fatih district of Istanbul that now serves as a mosque. The complex includes several domed spaces, a two-story annex, two entrance halls, and a southern chapel.
The building originated in the 11th century as a church outside the city walls. An official named Theodore Metochites commissioned the interior mosaics in the early 14th century.
The walls are covered with Byzantine mosaics depicting episodes from religious narratives and the lives of key figures. The building changed function in the 16th century and became a mosque, with a minaret added at that time.
The building is reached by ferry from Karaköy to Ayvansaray, followed by a walk from the landing. The entrance is located on a quiet residential street away from the main tourist routes.
A mosaic above the entrance shows Metochites himself in lavish clothing presenting a model of the building. This portrayal is unusual for Byzantine religious buildings, where donors are rarely depicted so prominently.
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Stone mosaics adorn buildings across continents, offering insights into the artistic traditions of different eras. Roman floor mosaics feature mythological scenes and geometric patterns in villas and public baths. Byzantine wall mosaics in churches depict religious figures using gold tesserae, while...
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A very beautiful discovery, this old Byzantine church. The frescoes and mosaics are splendid ❤️
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