Chora Church, Istanbul

Chora Church, Istanbul

Also known as the Church of St Saviour in Chora (chora translates 'countryside' in Byzantine Greek, which refers to what the site of the church exactly was when it was built), this is 1000 year old Byzantine church, an example of a church somewhat out of the traditional center, but is an absolute must see with precious mosaic frescoes and a captivating mood inside.

Also known as the Church of St Saviour in Chora (chora translates 'countryside' in Byzantine Greek, which refers to what the site of the church exactly was when it was built), this is 1000 year old Byzantine church, an example of a church somewhat out of the traditional center, but is an absolute must see with precious mosaic frescoes and a captivating mood inside. The early church frescoes had been covered with plaster for nearly 500 years, as the building had been converted into a mosque, but were uncovered in the mid-twentieth century and have been partially restored. Mindblowing frescoes and mosaics now cover the entire inside of this church. An impressive section of Theodosian walls is right next to the church.