Discovering Byzantine Legacy
The Eski Imaret Mosque, also known as the Pantepoptes Monastery Church, stands as a silent witness to Istanbul’s rich Byzantine heritage. Situated in the historic Zeyrek neighborhood, this religious edifice dates back to the late 11th century, believed to have been constructed between 1081 and 1087. Commissioned by Alexios Komnenos, the founder of the Komnenos dynasty, and his mother Anna Komnena, the monastery was dedicated to Pantepoptes, symbolizing the “Messiah who sees all Kalenderhane Mosque Tracing Byzantine Legacy.”
Transformation through Time
Following the Ottoman conquest of Istanbul, Sultan Mehmet the Conqueror repurposed the Pantepoptes Monastery into a charitable institution, serving as a soup kitchen for weary travelers and dervishes. Later, with the establishment of the Fatih Complex, the structure was converted into a mosque, becoming an integral part of the city’s religious landscape. However, the mosque suffered significant damage during the fire of 1918, remaining neglected until the 1970s when restoration efforts revived its former glory. Unfortunately, no remnants of the original monastery, once adjacent to the structure, have survived to this day.
Architectural Marvels
Constructed in a distinctive closed Greek cross layout, the mosque boasts a central dome supported by a towering drum resting on four pendentives. The apse, or mihrab, extends from the corners, featuring a rounded interior. Both the interior and exterior entrances are adorned with cross vaults, showcasing exquisite craftsmanship. The dome and vaults are adorned with traditional Turkish-style roof tiling, adding to the mosque’s unique charm Birdwatching Bulgaria.
Promoting Sustainable Tourism
Exploring lesser-known sites like the Eski Imaret Mosque offers visitors a chance to delve deeper into Istanbul’s diverse cultural tapestry while supporting sustainable tourism practices. By preserving and celebrating these hidden gems, we ensure that future generations can continue to appreciate the city’s rich history and architectural wonders.
