Pammakaristos Church

Anyone who is familiar with the Christian culture knows the words "Rejoice, Virgin Mary...». One of the main prayers of worship starts with these words and these same words were uttered by archangel Gabriel, who came to tell Mary the news of the Immaculate Conception. In honor of this event one of the most beautiful churches in Istanbul was erected. Pammakaristos Church in Istanbul is already known for being preserved virtually unchanged from the Byzantine era to this day. This is a real miracle in the city that has survived numerous sieges, earthquakes and uprisings!

Gift from Palaeologus dynasty

The exact date of construction is unknown. The range of scientific opinions is large: from 11 century (official version) to 6-7 centuries (more bold hypotheses). It is known that the first mention in the chronicles and documents relates to the era of the imperial dynasty of Palaiologos. Scientists consider, the church belongs to the era of Palaeologus. This was a powerful dynasty, whose representatives were able to detain the stagnation of the Byzantine Empire and return its former greatness including the construction of this beautiful church.

Particularity

Like all the temples of the era, Pammakaristos Church was richly decorated with mosaics and frescoes. Despite its modest size it is one of three churches in Istanbul with the richest visual series (and among the top ten of the temples of the world). For example, it shows Jesus surrounded by 12 apostles...
It is known that the first major renovation of the building was carried out after Constantinople was released from its captors, the Crusaders. They did not even spare the temples. They’ve cut out some shapes from the bas-relief of St. Sophia, robbed the temple of St. Irene and the church of Pammakaristos was damaged, too. After the expulsion of the invaders, Palaiologos started to reconstruct public buildings and churches.

Growing Church

Another feature of this Church of Constantinople is the fact that it was built during several centuries. In the late 13th century, for example, they’ve built there a few rooms, but in the very beginning of the 14th century - a small shrine. Typically, donors of the church - those who gave money for its renovation - were buried there.

Patriarchal throne

Patriarch of the former Byzantine Empire was looking for a new residence and finally had chosen this church. Patriarchal throne was kept in the temple until the end of the 16th century. After that, the temple was turned into a mosque. Much later, it came to desolation and after the reconstruction it was turned into a museum...