The Church of St George is the cathedral church of the Ecumenical Patriarchate in Istanbul’s Fener quarter. Its modest exterior gives way to a working religious complex whose role is central to Orthodox Christian life, inviting visitors to distinguish the neighborhood setting from its wider ecclesiastical significance.
Guide preview
St George’s Church is not only a neighborhood landmark: it serves as the patriarchal temple of the Ecumenical Patriarchate. Its history as that seat began after the patriarchate moved to Fener, and the church itself has been rebuilt and restored over time.
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Quick facts
- St George’s serves as the patriarchal temple of the Ecumenical Patriarchate.
- A fire damaged the church in 1720, after which it was rebuilt.
- The present church is a basilica.
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