Greek Orthodox Patriarchate, Istanbul

Since the Constantine the Great moved his capital from Rome to Constantinople, the center of the Eastern Christian Church is in Constantinople. Before the city was occupied by Latins in 1204, the Orthodox Patriarchate was in Hagia Sophia then moved to Nicea Hagia Sophia. After the city was reconquered by Byzantines in 1261, the Patriarchate center moved to Constantinople again. After the city was conquered by Mehmet II, The Orthodox Patriarchate for three years headquartered in the Church of the Holy Apostles (Todays Fatih Mosque area) in the 15th century, but was soon transferred to the Theotokos Pammacaristos Church (Today Fethiye Mosque and museum). It remained there until 1586, when it moved to St. George Church.

   The Church of St. George is humble church, although it has all the opulence and beauty of any Orthodox church. it had been part of a monastery before it welcomed the Orthodox Patriarchate. It houses the worldwide headquarters of the Greek Orthodox Church. The Orthodox Patriarchate today is recognized as the “first among equals” of all Orthodox spiritual leaders. Over the centuries, it has been damaged, the last time during the fire in 1941. Repairs began in 1989 and were completed in 1991.

   Among many relics in the church are the bodies of St. Omonia, St. Theophano and St. Euphemia, the Patriarchal Throne from late Byzantine period, although some claim it was original throne of St. John Chrysostom who was Patriarch at 5th century and tombs of three female saints.

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