Istanbul’s Iconic Kariye Mosque Reopens as a Mosque for Worship After many Decades

In a move steeped in centuries of religious history, Istanbul’s legendary Kariye Mosque reopened its doors for Muslim worship on May 6, 2024 after nearly eight decades as a museum. The historic house of prayer, originally built as a Byzantine church in the 6th century, was reconverted into a mosque by a 2020 presidential decree.  

“79 years later, Kariye Mosque was finally restored by our Foundations General Directorate and reopened for the faithful,” said Safi Arpagus, the Mufti of Istanbul, at today’s reopening ceremony.

A Byzantine Masterpiece Reborn  

Known for its exquisite mosaics and frescoes depicting biblical scenes, the Kariye Mosque – called the Chora Church in its Byzantine phase – has been both a Christian and Muslim place of worship over its 1,500 year existence.

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Originally constructed as the Church of the Holy Savior in the 6th century, it operated as a mosque after the Ottoman conquest of Constantinople in 1453 until being secularised into a museum in 1948. 

Restoration Balances Faith and Heritage  

The mosque’s four-year, multi-million lira restoration focused on repairing water damage and reinforcing the structure, while taking care to preserve its stunning interior religious artworks. While three iconic mosaics have been covered for Islamic worship, the remaining Byzantine masterpieces will be visible to visitors outside of prayer times.

“They did an excellent job with the restoration,” said Michel, a French tourist visiting today. “The frescoes are accessible to all while still allowing Muslim worship.”  

Despite international outcry from religious leaders over the UNESCO site’s re-conversion, many religious Turks welcome the decision to return the monument to its Islamic roots after decades of secularisation.

As the Muslim call to prayer once again echoes through Kariye’s ancient domes, this iconic Turkish landmark begins a new chapter in its multi-faith legacy.