Project Description
Greek Orthodox Patriarchate
The Ecumenical Patriarchate of Constantinople is one of the fourteen to sixteen autocephalous churches (or "jurisdictions") that together compose the Eastern Orthodox Church. It is headed by the Ecumenical Patriarch of Constantinople, currently Bartholomew I, Archbishop of Constantinople.
The Ecumenical Patriarchate of Constantinople has been here in Fener, since 1601 a century and a half after Constantinople was conquered in 1453 .
Because of its historical location as the capital of the former Eastern Roman (Byzantine) Empire and its role as the Mother Church of most modern Orthodox churches, Constantinople holds a special place of honor within Orthodoxy and serves as the seat for the Ecumenical Patriarch, who enjoys the status of Primus inter pares (first among equals) among the world's Eastern Orthodox prelates and is regarded as the representative and spiritual leader of the world's 300 million Orthodox Christians.
Inside the church are very important artifacts including Byzantine mosaics, religious relics and a wood-and-inlay patriarchal throne.
The Church of St George can be visited on most days of the year, from 08:30 to 16:00. Admission is free.
The Patriarchate is easily accessible from our hotel by bus number 55T.
