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Transformed Byzantine Church: Molla Zeyrek Mosque’s History

In Istanbul, Türkiye the Pantokrator Monastery Church, built by the Byzantine Empire 887 years ago, has a rich history. It was constructed in 1124 and completed in 1136, with three parts dedicated to different religious figures. However, during the Latin invasion, the church was looted, and many artifacts were taken to Venice. After the conquest of Istanbul in 1453, it was converted into the Molla Zeyrek Mosque, named after Molla Zeyrek Mehmed Efendi, a prominent scholar of the time. The mosque has a unique architectural design with three main domes, including a burial chapel dedicated to Archangel Michael. Remarkably, mosaic floors from the Byzantine period still exist on the church’s floor. In 2009, after extensive restoration, it was reopened for worship in 2019. The mosque is not just a place of worship; it also played a significant role in early Ottoman education, serving as the first educational institution in Istanbul. The complex includes mosques, madrasas, and other units. Today, it stands as a UNESCO World Heritage site and a remarkable piece of Istanbul’s history, preserved by the General Directorate of Foundations.

 

Semanur Kaygısız – Ahmet Faruk Sarıkoç

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Istanbul’s Çamlıca Tower Welcomes 2.3 Million Visitors in 4 Years

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Türkiye’s Minister of Transport and Infrastructure Abdulkadir Uraloğlu announced that Istanbul’s Çamlıca Tower has hosted approximately 2.3 million visitors since its inauguration by President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan on May 29, 2021.

Standing at 587 meters above sea level, the tulip-shaped tower is the tallest structure in Istanbul and combines architecture, technology, and visitor experience. It includes 49 floors with observation decks, restaurants, and interactive exhibits showcasing Istanbul’s landmarks.

Uraloğlu emphasized the tower’s role in broadcasting, currently supporting 100 FM channels, 16 analog TV, and 15 DAB+ stations, along with services for GSM and public institutions. He noted that Çamlıca Tower has significantly reduced electromagnetic emissions in the area, lowering levels from 39 to 2.5 Volts/meter—well below EU safety standards.

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