“A former Byzantine monastery containing the world’s most sophisticated 14th-century mosaics and frescoes of the Palaeologan Renaissance; the Parekklesion chapel features the 'Anastasis' fresco; a masterwork of movement and theology; the space is intimate and the air is noticeably cooler than the surrounding Fatih neighbourhood; the detail of the gold-leaf tesserae is best viewed through a handheld lens to appreciate the 700-year-old craftsmanship.”
About Chora Church
A former Byzantine monastery containing the world’s most sophisticated 14th-century mosaics and frescoes of the Palaeologan Renaissance; the Parekklesion chapel features the 'Anastasis' fresco; a masterwork of movement and theology; the space is intimate and the air is noticeably cooler than the surrounding Fatih neighbourhood; the detail of the gold-leaf tesserae is best viewed through a handheld lens to appreciate the 700-year-old craftsmanship.
Why Visit
Chora Church is one of Turkey's defining sites — a place that rewards every visitor differently.
✦ Insider Tips
- 1
Book tickets for Chora Church in advance to skip long queues.
- 2
Hire a local guide to unlock the stories behind every corner.
- 3
Spend extra time in the least-visited sections — they're often the most rewarding.
