Zeyrek Mosque is located on Fazilet Street in the Fatih district of Istanbul, overlooking the Golden Horn. This structure, which consists of old Byzantine churches and a chapel, is one of the most important examples of Middle Byzantine architecture in Con
Zeyrek Mosque (Pantocrator Monastery)
Zeyrek Mosque is located on Fazilet Street overlooking the Golden Horn in the Fatih district of Istanbul. This structure, which is a combination of old Byzantine churches and a chapel, is one of the most important examples of Middle Byzantine architecture in Constantinople. The largest surviving Byzantine religious structure in Istanbul after Hagia Sophia, Zeyrek Mosque draws attention with its deep-rooted historical and architectural features.
Zeyrek Mosque History
Byzantine Period
The origin of Zeyrek Mosque dates back to the monastery built in the 12th century by Empress Irene of Hungary, wife of Byzantine Emperor John II, dedicating it to Hristos Pantokrator (Jesus Christ, Ruler of the Universe). A second church dedicated to Theotokos Elaiusa (Virgin Mary of Compassion) was added to the north of the first structure. Later, these two churches were combined with a chapel dedicated to Archangel Michael. This complex became a mausoleum for the Byzantine Emperors, and many emperors from the Komnenos and Palaiologos dynasties were buried here.
During the Latin invasion (1204-1261), the structure came under the control of the Venetian Latin clergy, while many valuable works were transported to Europe. After the reconquest of Istanbul by Michael VIII in 1261, the complex was given to the administration of Orthodox priests.
Ottoman Period
After the conquest of Istanbul by the Ottomans in 1453, the structure was converted into a mosque and an educational institution. A section of the complex began to be used as a madrasah, and the mosque took its name from one of its first teachers, Molla Zeyrek. During the Ottoman period, the structure was repaired and used several times.
Republican Period
Zeyrek Mosque, which had been neglected for a century, has been the subject of various restoration projects since 1953. After a comprehensive restoration that began in 2009 and lasted nine years, the mosque was reopened in 2019.
Zeyrek Mosque Architectural Features
Zeyrek Mosque was built with the embedded brick technique. The south and north churches have a cruciform plan and have central domes and polygonal apses. Some of the original mosaic and marble decorations of the structure have survived to the present day. The south church is notable for its narthex and matroneum domes, while the north church is distinguished by its eaves decorations.
Another important part of the complex is the burial chapel belonging to the Byzantine Imperial family. This area was richly decorated with stained glass and colorful mosaics with saint figures during the Byzantine period.
Zeyrek Mosque's Immediate Surroundings
Near the mosque is the Sheikh Suleyman Mosque, which probably belonged to the Pantokrator Monastery. It is thought that this structure may have served as a library. In addition, to the east of the complex, there is an Ottoman mansion called Zeyrekhane, which has been restored and is used as a restaurant and tea garden.
Zeyrek Mosque is an important work that bears traces of both Byzantine and Ottoman architecture and culture and sheds light on the historical identity of Istanbul.
