Kalenderhane Mosque, Byzantine mosque in Fatih, Turkey
The Kalenderhane Mosque is a former church building featuring a central nave, a dome, and lateral spaces connected through brick vaults. The interior floor is laid with colored marble slabs that define the space.
The building was constructed in the 6th century as a thermal establishment and later served as a church before being converted into a mosque following Constantinople's fall. This transformation reflects the political and religious changes the city underwent.
The southwestern chapel displays remarkable frescoes showing Saint Francis of Assisi and ten surrounding scenes painted during the Latin occupation. These wall paintings provide insight into religious art practices during a particular period in the city's history.
The building stands near the eastern end of the Valens Aqueduct and is easily accessible through the Vezneciler district. The location is central and requires no special planning for a visit.
The building preserves the only religious mosaic scene from before the iconoclastic period, depicting the Virgin Mary, Jesus, and the priest Simeon. This rare artwork offers insight into early Byzantine artistic practices.
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