Church of Saint Menas of Samatya, Eastern Orthodox church in Fatih district, Turkey
The Church of Saint Menas is an Eastern Orthodox house of worship featuring a rectangular basilica with three naves and traditional interior decoration. The space is defined by an ornate iconostasis and religious icons that fill the walls.
The current building was constructed in 1833, replacing an earlier structure that was destroyed in a major fire that swept through Samatya in 1782. Its reconstruction marked the revival of this important religious site.
This place serves as a spiritual center for the local Greek Orthodox community, where people gather for worship and religious observances. It remains an active part of the neighborhood's religious life.
Visitors can reach the church on Bestekar Hakkı Sokak and explore the interior with its religious decoration and historical elements. It is advisable to dress respectfully and be aware of active worship times.
Four ancient tombs discovered beneath the church in 1878 suggest it was built on a site of early Christian worship and martyrdom dating to the fourth or fifth century. This archaeological evidence reveals the place held spiritual significance for many centuries before the current building was constructed.
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