Located in the heart of Istanbul, Kariye Mosque or the Chora Church invites people to turn the page of the city’s history. This is an 11th-century church that used to contain some of the finest Byzantine mosaics and frescoes in existence. Originally built in the 4th century as a church, it was used as a mosque, a museum and then a mosque again after it was converted in 2020. Discover the fascinating stories of the past in Kariye Mosque and learn that every corner of the building has something to tell about Byzantine splendour and Ottoman refinement. The mosque is a significant attraction for art lovers and history enthusiasts alike.
History Of Kariye Mosque
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Kariye Mosque was built as a monastery church outside the walls of Constantinople in the 4th century. Over the period, the church underwent several constructional changes, and major expansions were made during the 11th and 14th centuries.
The most significant change was made in the 16th century when the Ottomans turned it into a mosque. However, the Byzantine mosaics and frescoes were covered with plaster layers and rediscovered during the restoration works in the mid-twentieth century.
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Kariye Mosque Interiors
The interior of Kariye Mosque is a great example of Byzantine art and architecture, with mosaics and frescoes representing religious scenes. The mosque has several main parts, each with its characteristics.
1. Narthex
The narthex is the mosque’s entrance hall, which is divided into the outer and inner exonarthex. The exonarthex has mosaics of scenes from Christ’s life, such as Joseph’s dream, the journey to Bethlehem, and the Nativity.
The exonarthex has more religious mosaics, including the Virgin and Child and the Christ Pantokrator. This area defines the overall theme of the artistic history evident in the construction of the mosque.
2. Exonarthex
The outer narthex is a long hall with a series of mosaics depicting the events of Christ’s life. Some of the most outstanding mosaics here are the journey of the Magi, King Herod’s inquiry, and the flight into Egypt.
These mosaics are not only artistic but also historical in the sense that they give the archaeologist an idea of the people’s religious practices during that period. The exonarthex is a splendid introduction to the spiritual and artistic experience of the Kariye Mosque.
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3. Outer Esonarthex
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The esonarthex or inner narthex is slightly shorter than the exonarthex, but it is as grand as the outer narthex. It has two “pumpkin” domes, one of which depicts an enthroned Christ, with Theodore Metochites offering a model of the church.
The esonarthex also contains a large Deesis mosaic with Christ and the Virgin Mary with earlier patrons below. This area focuses on the relationship between the church and its sponsors, and the religious meaning of the space.
4. Naos
The naos, or the central hall of the mosque, is the place of worship. It contains the largest dome in the mosque and has beautiful mosaics. There are only three mosaics left in this area but they are some of the most important ones, such as Christ and the Virgin Mary.
The naos is the core of the Kariye Mosque, where architectural and artistic features combine to create a sacred area.
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5. Parecclesion
The preclusion is a side chapel used for burial and memorial services. It is decorated with frescoes representing the concept of salvation, the most notable of which is the Anastasis.
The frescoes here are very lively and active, illustrating Christ’s descent into hell and the judgement day. The parecclesion is a very sacred place in accordance with the Christian notion of the existence of life after death and the possibility of salvation.
Kariye Mosque Timings & Entrance Fee
Kariye Mosque is open every day from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. The entrance fee is 20 Euro, and for this, you can visit one of Istanbul’s most important historical and art monuments.
Whether you are a history or art lover, the Kariye Mosque is a perfect place to visit in Istanbul to learn about the city’s history.
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Places To Visit Nearby Kariye Mosque
While the mosque is a sight to behold in itself, here are some of the other top attractions around the Kariye Mosque in Istanbul:While the mosque is a sight to behold in itself, here are some of the other top attractions around the Kariye mosque in Istanbul:
1. Hagia Sophia
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Another architectural wonder in the Fatih district is the Hagia Sophia which is a Byzantine architecture. It was constructed as a cathedral in 537 AD and has been used as a mosque, a museum, and a mosque again since 2020. The Hagia Sophia is famous for its huge central dome and beautiful mosaics. It is possible to go inside and see the beautiful carving on the walls, the large nave and the ornate apse. The Hagia Sophia has remained one of the most important religious and cultural structures to date.
Timings: Monday to Friday: 9 am to 7:30 pm
Entry Fee: EUR 25 (INR 2,235)
2. Topkapi Palace
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Another famous attraction centre near Kariye Mosque is the Topkapi Palace, the Ottoman sultans’ palace. The palace is situated in the Sultanahmet district and it is possible to see how the Ottoman rulers lived in the past. Tourists are free to walk through the large courtyards, stuccoed rooms, and the Harem section that tourists find most fascinating. The palace also contains the relics of the Prophet Muhammad such as his cloak and sword. Topkapi Palace is a museum that gives a glimpse of the past of the Ottoman Empire in Turkey.
Timings: Monday to Friday, 8:30 am to 6:30 pm
Entry Fee: Free entry
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3. Sultan Ahmed Mosque (Blue Mosque)
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The Sultan Ahmed Mosque, or the Blue Mosque, is one of the most famous sights of Istanbul. Situated close to the famous Hagia Sophia, the mosque is well-known for its blue ceramic tiles on the walls. The Blue Mosque was constructed between 1609 and 1616 and is a fine example of the Ottoman style of architecture with a large central dome, six minarets and an extensive courtyard. The mosque is still used for its original purpose, and people can come and pray, look at the stunning architecture and enjoy the calmness of the place.
Timings: Monday to Saturday: 10 am to 4 pm; Sunday: Closed
Entry Fee: 1500 TL for entry and 500 TL additional for Harem section
4. Basilica Cistern
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The Basilica Cistern is an old water cistern which is situated close to the famous cathedral of Hagia Sophia. Constructed in the 6th century, during the rule of Emperor Justinian I, the cistern is an architectural wonder with its enormous hall with columns. The cistern was intended to store water for the Great Palace of Constantinople and other constructions in the city. Today, tourists can walk through the dark hall with low light and the sound of water dripping on the floor and admire two Medusa head columns that are considered to be the highlights of the building.
Timings: 9:00am to 6:30 pm, 7:30 pm to 11:50 pm
Entry Fee: 800 TL
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How To Reach Kariye Mosque Turkey
By Road: The Kariye Mosque is well connected by road transport from different parts of Istanbul. Taxis and buses are the most convenient means of transport and the nearest bus stop is the Edirnekapı bus stop.
By Air: The closest airport is the Istanbul Airport, from where one can take a taxi or bus to the mosque, which is approximately an hour’s drive away.
By Rail: The nearest metro station is the Vezneciler Metro Station. From there, one can take a short taxi ride or take a bus to get to the Kariye Mosque.
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The Kariye Mosque is a mosque and a museum containing many historical, artistic and cultural values. It has a fascinating history and is one of the few places in Istanbul with Byzantine mosaics and frescoes. If you are a history or architecture lover or if you want to feel the sacredness of the place, you will be amazed by the Kariye Mosque. So, do not miss your opportunity to visit this wonderful place on your next trip to Turkey .
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Frequently Asked Questions About Kariye Mosque
What is the meaning of the mosaics in Kariye Mosque?
The mosaics in Kariye Mosque are important as they are some of the best examples of Byzantine art, which shows religious scenes with great accuracy and beauty.
Are Kariye Mosque open for non-Muslims?
Yes, non-Muslims are allowed to enter the Kariye Mosque at other times apart from praying. All visitors should dress appropriately and adhere to the rules and regulations of the mosque.
When is the most appropriate time to visit Kariye Mosque?
The best time to visit is in the morning when the mosque opens at 9:00 a. m. in the morning because there are few people around and you can actually appreciate the art and architecture.
Is there any possibility to take a guided tour in Kariye Mosque?
Yes, there are guided tours and it is useful to know the history and meaning of the features of the mosque.
Can one take photos inside Kariye Mosque?
Taking pictures is allowed in Kariye Mosque but one has to be careful not to intrude when the people are praying.
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