DESTINA. Art & Heritage VIP Support
The Artistic Sanctuary of Byzantium

The Seal
of Chora

A miracle where stones speak and golden mosaics dance with light. A 1000-year-old elegance standing right beside the Edirnekapı Walls.

Kariye Mosque Mosaic Detail

Mosaic Art

The mosaics commissioned by Theodore Metochites represent the absolute peak of Byzantine artistic achievement.

Parekklesion

The "Anastasis" (Resurrection) fresco in the side chapel is widely considered a masterpiece of world art history.

Location

Located in Fatih, right next to the Edirnekapı walls, at the heart of the historical walled city atmosphere.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Kariye a museum or a mosque?

By a 2020 decree, Kariye was converted from a museum to a mosque status and has been fully open for both worship and visitation as of 2024.

Are mosaics covered during prayer?

During prayer times, visual figures in the main prayer hall are covered with curtains; however, artworks in other sections remain available for viewing.