Home Destinations Istanbul The architecture of stunning Istanbul. The Greek Orthodox Church of the Holy Trinity (Hagia Trias)

The architecture of stunning Istanbul. The Greek Orthodox Church of the Holy Trinity (Hagia Trias)

Hi! Today I suggest we continue our acquaintance with the iconic buildings of ancient Istanbul. This time we will look at the Greek Orthodox Church of the Holy Trinity, located in one of the most popular tourist areas of the city.

Church of the Holy Trinity (Hagia Trias) in Istanbul
Church of the Holy Trinity (Hagia Trias) in Istanbul

Sign at the entrance
Sign at the entrance

On the territory of the complex
On the territory of the complex

A bit of history

The Greek Church of the Holy Trinity (Hagia Trias) is considered the largest Orthodox church in Istanbul. In two city guidebooks, I discovered the names of two different architects who were involved in designing the church building. Nevertheless, both sources agree on the construction date of the structure, which is 1880.

The church was built in 1880
The church was built in 1880

One of the towers
One of the towers

Nativity scene
Nativity scene

One notable feature of the church building is its two tall towers, located on its eastern side. If we approach the church from its main entrance, we cannot see the large dome that crowns the structure. Interestingly, this is one of the first buildings in Istanbul that was constructed after the lifting of the ban on building domes in all buildings except mosques.

The Greek Orthodox Church of the Holy Trinity is considered the largest Orthodox temple in Istanbul
The Greek Orthodox Church of the Holy Trinity is considered the largest Orthodox temple in Istanbul

Interior of the building
Interior of the building

Dome
Dome

Thanks to the rays of sunlight that penetrate through the round stained-glass windows, the interiors of the church's main hall look very interesting. Such openings, often found in Gothic architecture, are called Rose windows. Even though the church is active, there were very few people here during my visit.

In two city guides, I found the names of two different architects who were involved in designing the church building
In two city guides, I found the names of two different architects who were involved in designing the church building

Stained glass window
Stained glass window

Bright spots
Bright spots

The church is located just a few minutes' walk from the major transportation hub Taksim. Here, there is an exit from the metro station and funicular of the same name, and nearby passes the line of the famous historical tram of Istanbul.

I came across information that the church is only open during religious services, which are held on Sunday mornings. I visited here on a Monday, and on this day the building was also available for visits.

I came across information that the church is only open during the worship services held on Sunday mornings
I came across information that the church is only open during the worship services held on Sunday mornings

Window
Window

Interior details
Interior details

Not far from the church building runs the popular tourist street, Istiklal. Architecture enthusiasts can take a stroll along it to continue their acquaintance with the architecture of ancient Istanbul. Among the most notable buildings in this area, I would include another iconic structure, the St Antony`s Cathedral. It is in the southern part of this famous pedestrian zone.

Have a nice trip!

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