Istanbul, Turkey

Virgin Mary Greek Orthodox Church

Istanbul, Turkey

Rating★4.4(1,426 reviews)

AddressBalat, Firketeci Sk. No:1, 34087 Fatih/Istanbul, Turkiye

ChurchPlace Of WorshipPopular

Small Byzantine Greek Orthodox church founded in the 7th century & occasionally open to the public.

Last updated: February 11, 2026

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Overview

Small Byzantine Greek Orthodox church founded in the 7th century & occasionally open to the public.

Opening Hours

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Visitor Reviews

**★★★★★ k — a week ago

Wow! What an amazing architectural accomplishment. The thing is wonderful. It’s closed but just walk around it, and take it in. The areas an around is beautiful and unique too.

Recommend walking from the top down.

**★★★★★ nadija — 4 months ago

This church is absolutely stunning from the outside – its architecture and details are truly captivating. A must-see for anyone who appreciates beautiful historical buildings.

**★★★★☆ TK — a month ago

Love the uniqueness of the architecture. Doesn’t resemble anything that I’ve ever seen before. We couldn’t get inside so we had to settle for the partial views. Stunning nonetheless. Probably a 5-Star rating if we got in.

**★★★★☆ BradinHK — 4 months ago

There are several Orthodox churches that you can visit in the Balat Neighbourhood. The Church of St. Mary of the Mongols (Meryem Ana Rum Ortodoks Kilisesi) is located on the north side of the red brick and imposing Fener Rum Kız Lisesi (Greek Orthodox Girls School).

You will find an unassuming entrance (see picture) along Firketeci Sk. Not sure what normal opening times are and if you find the gate door closed, ring the buzzer and ask if you can see the church.

During our visit, a nice young l

**★☆☆☆☆ Saikhnaa — 7 months ago

So many people are mistaking this small church for the much larger and impressive red school next to it. The church itself is pleasant with nicely decorated artwork but the staff are unfriendly, don’t speak any English and are pacing around waiting for you to leave. At least it’s free. The neighborhood has a lot of scams and is just generally badly maintained.

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