Sights · 33 of the best in Istanbul
Chora (Kariye Mosque)
The finest Byzantine mosaics
Photo Credit
Image courtesy of © ArtProjection · CC0 via Wikimedia CommonsAbout Chora (Kariye Mosque)
The Church of the Holy Saviour in Chora, near the land walls, was decorated in the early 14th century with mosaics of the lives of Christ and the Virgin and frescoes such as the Anastasis, the Resurrection, which are among the masterpieces of Byzantine art. Long a museum, it reopened as the Kariye Mosque in 2024, and the mosaics remain visible to visitors outside prayer times. Dress modestly (shoulders and knees covered, a headscarf for women), take off your shoes, and avoid prayer times.
Why it's on our list
- Early 14th-century mosaics
- Frescoes of the Resurrection
- Near the walls
Opening hours, prices and seasonal openings change, so please check with Chora (Kariye Mosque) before you go.
What’s nearby
Distances from Chora (Kariye Mosque) are approximate, measured in a straight line (as the crow flies). Times are approximate too: walking at about 80 metres a minute, cycling at about 15 km/h and driving at typical city-traffic speeds. Traffic and routes vary.
Nearest metro & tram stops
- EdirnekapıT4450 m6 min walk
- BalatT5800 m10 min walk
- ŞehitlikT41.0 km12 min walk
Key sights
- Süleymaniye Mosque2.7 kmWalk 33 minCycle 11 minCar or taxi 11 min
- Galata Tower3.0 kmWalk 37 minCycle 12 minCar or taxi 12 min
- Galata Bridge3.1 kmWalk 39 minCycle 12 minCar or taxi 12 min
- Spice Bazaar3.1 kmWalk 39 minCycle 13 minCar or taxi 12 min
- İstiklal Avenue3.2 kmWalk 41 minCycle 13 minCar or taxi 13 min
- Grand Bazaar3.3 kmWalk 41 minCycle 13 minCar or taxi 13 min
- Taksim Square3.9 kmCycle 16 minCar or taxi 15 min
- Basilica Cistern4.1 kmCycle 17 minCar or taxi 15 min
- Hagia Sophia4.3 kmCycle 17 minCar or taxi 16 min
- Blue Mosque4.3 kmCycle 17 minCar or taxi 16 min
Getting around
- Istanbul Airport (IST)31 kmCar or taxi 97 min
- Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW)34 kmCar or taxi 106 min