Explore the Serenity of the Virgin Mary Greek Orthodox Church in Balat
Discover the rich history and serene beauty of the Virgin Mary Greek Orthodox Church in Balat, a hidden gem in Istanbul's vibrant cultural landscape.
Nestled in the historic neighborhood of Balat, the Virgin Mary Greek Orthodox Church offers visitors an opportunity to explore its stunning architecture and rich cultural heritage. This serene church, adorned with beautiful frescoes and an inviting atmosphere, is a must-visit for those seeking spiritual solace and a glimpse into the traditions of the Greek Orthodox faith.
A brief summary to Virgin Mary Greek Orthodox Church
- Firketeci Sk. No:1, Fatih, Balat, İstanbul, 34087, TR
Local tips
- Visit during weekdays for a quieter experience and to fully appreciate the church's serene atmosphere.
- Dress modestly to show respect when visiting the church.
- Take time to explore the surrounding Balat neighborhood for a taste of local culture and cuisine.
- Engage with local guides to learn more about the church's history and its role in the community.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning architecture and vibrant colors of both the church and the Balat area.
Getting There
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Public Transport
If you are in the Sultanahmet area, take the tram (T1 line) from Sultanahmet station towards Bağcılar. Get off at the Eminönü stop (approximately 10 minutes). From there, walk to the Eminönü bus station, which is a short 5-minute walk. You can take bus 28 or 28B towards Hasköy. After about 15 minutes, get off at the Balat stop. From the bus stop, it's a 5-minute walk to Virgin Mary Greek Orthodox Church located on Firketeci Street. Follow the road straight ahead, and the church will be on your left.
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Walking
If you are in the Balat area, simply walk to Firketeci Street. The Virgin Mary Greek Orthodox Church is located at No:1 on this street. If you are near the famous Fener Rum Patriçhanesi (the Greek Orthodox Patriarchate), head towards the waterfront and then follow the street upwards to reach Firketeci Street. The church is a short walk away.
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Taxi
If you prefer a more direct route and are in a different part of the city, you can take a taxi to Virgin Mary Greek Orthodox Church. Simply show the driver the address: 'Balat, Firketeci Sk. No:1, 34087 Fatih/İstanbul'. Taxis are common and drivers are generally familiar with major landmarks. The journey will take approximately 20-30 minutes depending on traffic.
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Ferry and Walking
If you are near the Bosphorus, you can take a ferry from Karaköy to Eyüp. Upon arriving at Eyüp, take bus 36 or 36A towards Hasköy and get off at the Balat stop. From the bus stop, it is a 5-minute walk to the church on Firketeci Street. This route allows you to enjoy scenic views of the Bosphorus.
Discover more about Virgin Mary Greek Orthodox Church
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