About this experience
Guests in Istanbul are usually shown ancient mosques and magnificent palaces. However, let's not forget that the city was previously called Constantinople and was the largest center of Orthodoxy. In a sense, Istanbul still retains this heritage: there are over 100 Orthodox churches here! And we will explore 4 of them: Church of the Keys, Church of St. Mary of Blachernae, Church of St. Stephen, and Cathedral of St. George.
What to Expect
Exploring Orthodox Istanbul
In Istanbul, pilgrims from all over the world gather annually to visit the city's shrines. They come to worship the saints, seek the protection and blessings of higher powers, and ask for the fulfillment of secret desires. The places we will visit are steeped in legends and stories, which I will share with you.
Church of the Keys. Also known as the Church of Wish Fulfillment and the Church of One Day. Its official name is the Church of the Virgin Mary. I will tell you the legend behind these names and reveal why people come here to make wishes. You will learn the actions required for your wish to come true and, if you wish, you can partake in this curious ritual. People of all faiths visit here because wishes are granted regardless of religious affiliation.
Church of the Virgin of Blachernae. Became a center of faith when the Robe of the Virgin Mary was brought here in the 5th century AD. Since then, the church has witnessed many happy centuries, as well as times of hardship and change, which I will tell you about. What remains unchanged is the miraculous spring that attracts numerous pilgrims.
Church of St. Stephen. This is an iron church in the truest sense: after the old wooden church burned down, a church was built of iron in the late 19th century. This church is under the care of the Bulgarian Orthodox community and symbolizes the friendship between the two countries.
Cathedral of St. George. Orthodox cathedral in honor of the great martyr St. George the Victorious, serving as the residence of the Ecumenical Patriarch of Constantinople since 1601. Located in the historic Fener district, you will admire the rich decoration of the church, including the golden iconostasis, mosaic icons, and tall ivory candelabra. The church houses containers with relics of saints Gregory of Nazianzus and John Chrysostom. You will also see sarcophagi containing the remains of the great martyrs queens Theophano, Solomonia, and Euphemia.
Blachernae Palace. This well-preserved Byzantine building made of red brick and white marble has endured the Ottoman conquests and changes in function throughout history, which I will discuss. Today, it houses a museum where you will see antique household items and art objects, learn about ancient crafts, and enjoy a panoramic view of the city from the rooftop.
Organizational Details
- The tour will be conducted by me or another professional guide from our team
- The program is suitable for adults and children aged 12 and above
- The tour is on foot, so please wear comfortable shoes
- Entrance to the Blachernae Palace is included in the tour price, visits to the shrines are free of charge
- Please ensure that your attire is modest: long pants/skirts, covered shoulders, and for women, a head covering
