Aya Triada Greek Orthodox Church

audio narration:

construction year:

1867-1880

location:

Beyoğlu, İstanbul

ordered by:

Unknown

architect:

Potesaros and Vasilakis İoannidis

Changes After Construction:
  • There had previously been a wooden church dedicated to Saint George on the same site; when the need increased, it was decided to build a stone church.
  • A committee was established on February 25, 1867, for the construction of the new church.
  • The foundation was laid ceremonially on August 13, 1867.
  • Construction continued between 1867 and 1880, and the opening took place on September 11, 1880.
  • The official opening was held on September 14, 1880 (the Feast of the Holy Cross).
  • The building suffered heavy damage during the events of September 6–7, 1955.
  • After a comprehensive renovation initiated in the 1990s, the church reopened on March 23, 2003.
  • The metal cross on the dome was reinstalled on August 4, 2025.
Prominent Features:
  • The church belongs to the Greek Orthodox Patriarchate of Istanbul.
  • The church is dedicated to the Holy Trinity.
  • It is described as the largest church in the Pera district.
  • The building is in the form of a domed cross basilica.
  • Its two bell towers and large dome are distinctive elements of the structure.
  • The templon (icon screen) is made of marble.
  • The stained-glass windows are counted among the characteristic features of the building.
  • Most of the icons are described as reflecting an approach positioned between Byzantine and Western styles.
  • In the past, the complex housed units such as a school, a soup kitchen, and a clinic; it is stated that the clinic’s activity ended in 1978.
  • The soup kitchen was established in 1935, and it is stated that it continues to serve today.
  • It has been recorded as the first church in Istanbul to be built with a dome after the Tanzimat Edict.