In Balat, the Virgin Mary Greek Orthodox Church, also called the Church of Saint Mary of the Mongols, dates to the late 13th century. Its brick exterior and detailed architecture reward a stop even if the doors are closed. When access is possible, look inside for historic paintings, icons, chandeliers and the iconostasis. The entrance is on Firketeci Street, beside the large red-brick Greek Orthodox Girls’ School, so check the church itself rather than mistaking it for the school.
A late 13th-century church in Balat
The Virgin Mary Greek Orthodox Church is also known as the Church of Saint Mary of the Mongols. It dates to the late 13th century and is among Istanbul’s oldest Greek Orthodox churches. The church is on Firketeci Street in Balat, beside the red-brick Greek Orthodox Girls’ School. Its entrance is modest, so look for the church gate rather than assuming the larger school building is the site you came to see.
Brickwork gives the church a distinctive exterior. Its architectural details are worth a closer look, including when the building is closed to visitors.
Inside the church
When the church is open for a visit, the interior contains historic paintings, icons, chandeliers and an iconostasis. Access is not guaranteed: the gate may be shut, and opening times for visits are not clear. If it is closed, ring the buzzer and politely ask whether entry is possible. Off-peak visits may improve your chance of finding someone available to let you in.
FAQ
Can you go inside the Virgin Mary Greek Orthodox Church?
Access is not guaranteed. If the gate is closed, ring the buzzer and politely ask whether you can visit.
What can you see inside the church?
The interior has historic paintings, icons, chandeliers and an iconostasis.
Where is the Virgin Mary Greek Orthodox Church?
It is on Firketeci Street in Balat, beside the red-brick Greek Orthodox Girls’ School.
