Church of Saint George

Being located in the historic part of Istanbul, Patriarchate of Constantinople is not just one of the many churches of this great and rich city. For any Orthodox Christian Church of St. George can be a gate leading into the world of religion and history...

Historical facts

Patriarchate of Constantinople, situated on the border of the main Christian district of old Istanbul, for many years adorns the city and embodies the eternal mystery of Christianity. The main gates to the church have been locked up since 1821, when the Turks decided to hang Patriarch Gregory V for refusing to change his faith. He said to the brutal and bloodthirsty Turks after the Greek uprising: "Don’t trouble in vain, the Christian patriarch dies a Christian."
Patriarch Gregory V, who died at the hands of Turks during the War of Independence, was canonized subsequently as a martyr.
In honor of the great death of Patriarch the main gates of Patriarchate of Constantinople were closed in 1821 till today. Now one can enter through the side door.

Beauty of the church

Church of St. George in Istanbul is a truly impressive and majestic building. Built of white stone, with high arches and mysterious dark windows, it gives a mixed impression: on the one hand it causes trembling with the majestic power of the Orthodox Church, on the other - the light and warmth, reflected from its walls.
The building’s interior is no less interesting. Lovers of ancient relics and simply lovers of beauty will certainly like it. Rich decoration and lots of light coming from everywhere will make an unforgettable impression.
In addition, the church contains several highly revered relics: unique mosaic icons ("John the Baptist" and "Our Lady", the middle of XI - end of XII century), Byzantine ceremonial cross presumably cut out of the Holy Cross, stone column to which Christ was tied for the scourging, patriarchal throne of John Chrysostom - bishop of Constantinople of the IV century, one of the Fathers of the Church and the great spiritual teacher.

Every Christian has to visit this holy place and feel the sacred roots of religion.
This church is open from 8.00 till 17.00.