Chora Church - Kariye Museum The Turkish term 'Kariye' originates from the ancient Greek word 'chora', which translates to 'outside or beyond the city (land)'. Historical records indicate that a chapel stood outside the city before the construction of the city walls in the 5th century. The original Chora Church was reconstructed by Justinianus (527-565) on the location of this chapel. Unfortunately, it was destroyed during the Latin invasion (1204-1261). In 1328, Andronikos II restored the church, moved by its architecture and historical significance after visiting it on a pilgrimage to Jerusalem. The mosaics and frescoes of Chora Church are regarded as some of the most exquisite examples from this era, featuring a unique style that emphasizes depth, movement, and elongated figures. Following the conquest of Istanbul in 1453, the structure functioned as a church. In 1511, it was converted into a mosque by Vizier Hadim Ali Pasha, and later transformed into a museum in 1945. During restoration and renovation work carried out between 1948 and 1959, frescoes were uncovered on the walls that had been hidden during an earlier renovation after the building’s conversion into a mosque. Should you have any questions or need more information about Chora Church, please feel free to reach out to us at [email protected] or simply contact us via WhatsApp, and we will get back to you as soon as possible.