Turkey’s government plans to convert the Church of the Savior in Istanbul into a mosque. The Byzantine-era church has been serving as a museum for more than 79 years.
Similar to what happened in 2020 with Hagia Sophia, Islamic prayers and rites will be carried out again in the ancient church, according to the Vatican agency Fides, the information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies.
The Church of St. Savior, also known as Chora Church, is recognized as one of the most important Byzantine gems in the world and is adorned with many unique icons and frescoes.
Turkish media, especially the Islamist daily Yeni Şafak, initially reported that the mosque would reopen for Islamic prayers on 23 February 2023. However, the General Directorate of Turkish Institutions within the government’s Ministry of Culture and Tourism denied the report, stating that the opening date remains unannounced.