Eski Imaret Mosque, Byzantine mosque in Fatih district, Turkey
Description
Eski Imaret Mosque is a Byzantine structure made of brick and stone in the Fatih district, built on a slope overlooking the Golden Horn. The building displays alternating layers of brick and stone in this characteristic Byzantine construction style.
History
The structure originated as a monastery in 1087, commissioned by Anna Dalassena, mother of Byzantine Emperor Alexios I Komnenos. After 1453 and the conquest of Istanbul, the building was converted into a mosque.
Culture
The building transitioned through different religious purposes over time, moving from an Orthodox church to a Roman Catholic chapel before becoming an Islamic place of worship. The shifts between faith traditions remain visible in how the space is organized and decorated.
Practical
The building is undergoing renovation work and remains partially closed to visitors due to ongoing restoration efforts. It is wise to check current access conditions before visiting and plan flexible timing.
Did you know?
The building preserves a U-shaped gallery system above the narthex, which is rarely seen in Byzantine churches of this type. This architectural feature makes it an important example for understanding Byzantine church design from this period.
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide. Discover all places nearby (Istanbul).
Ecumenical Patriarchate of Constantinople
886 m
Fatih Istanbul Mosque
493 m
Church of St. George
869 m
Aqueduct of Valens
634 m
Yavuz Selim Mosque
631 m
Zeyrek Mosque
286 m
İsmailağa Camii
828 m
Church of St. Polyeuctus
845 m
Gül Mosque
583 m
Column of Marcian
798 m
Molla Gürani Mosque
747 m
Dostlar Tiyatrosu
875 m
Aviation Martyrs' Monument
664 mİskender Pasha Mosque, Fatih
817 m
Cistern of Aspar
643 m
Şeyh Süleyman Mosque
277 mZeyrek Sarnıcı
351 m
Burmalı Mosque
794 m
Şepsefa Hatun Mosque
414 m
Piri Mehmed Pasha Mosque
325 m
Istanbul University Alfred Heilbronn Botanical Garden
841 mShaykh Ebu'l Vefa Mosque
647 m
Şekerci Han
600 m
Ayakapı Ayios Nikolaos Kilisesi
658 m
Balat Toy Museum
683 m
Softa Hatip Camii
772 m
Sanctus Angelus Monastery in Petra
286 m
Katip Şemseddin Camii
783 mDiscover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes