Stay updated on the latest events, restoration milestones, and historical announcements from the Church of Panagia Paramythia (Vlach-Saray) in Phanar, Istanbul.
From historic open-air Divine Liturgies presided over by His Holiness Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew to active restoration efforts led by the Board of Trustees, explore coverage documenting the preservation of this sacred sanctuary and the cultural heritage of the Omogeneia and the Genos (Γένος).
the Church of Panagia Paramythia in Vlach Saray hosted a distinguished lecture featuring the renowned Turkish philosopher, academic, and former ambassador, Professor Dr. Kenan Gürsoy, alongside his wife, Professor Dr. Belkıs Gürsoy. Together, they presented an insightful talk titled "Notes on Cultural Communities and the Coexistence of Muslims and Christians in the Fatih District in the 1950s," offering personal and historical perspectives on the rich multicultural tapestry of Istanbul's past.
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A landmark agreement was formalized at the historic Church of Panagia Paramythia (Vlach Saray) in Istanbul. It was officially signed between Özyeğin University and the Waqf Foundation of the Panagia Paramythia Vlach Saray Community. This agreement initiates an immediate and crucial action plan focused on structural stabilization—specifically reinforcing the church’s historic walls, constructing a protective temporary roof structure, and conducting comprehensive architectural.
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His Holiness the Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew presided over the Divine Liturgy, Monday, May 23, 2022, at the ruins of the Church of Panagia Paramythia in Phanar, known as 'Vlach Sarai.' It was the first Divine Liturgy celebrated in this historical church after its total destruction by fire in 1970. It is recalled that Panagia Paramythia, located a few hundred meters from the present seat of the Ecumenical Patriarchate, served briefly as the Patriarchal Cathedral starting in 1587.
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Every year on August 15, Christian communities across Istanbul celebrate Meryem Ana Yortusu—the Feast of the Virgin Mary. Known in the Eastern Orthodox tradition as the Dormition of the Theotokos, this holy day commemorates the physical death, burial, and subsequent bodily resurrection of the Virgin Mary. It is a profound celebration woven directly into the imperial history of Constantinople and the enduring legacy of the Church of Panagia Paramythia.
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The celebration of Orthodox Greek Easter—known locally in Istanbul as Paskalya—is a profound, deeply moving experience that bridges centuries of sacred Byzantine history with the living faith of today. At the historic Church of Panagia Paramythia (Mother of God of Consolation), located in the heart of the Phanar and Balat districts, the solemnity of Holy Week gives way to a transcendent celebration of resurrection, light, and enduring community spirit.
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Every year on August 15, Christian communities across Istanbul celebrate Meryem Ana Yortusu—the Feast of the Virgin Mary. Known in the Eastern Orthodox tradition as the Dormition of the Theotokos, this holy day commemorates the physical death, burial, and subsequent bodily resurrection of the Virgin Mary. It is a profound celebration woven directly into the imperial history of Constantinople and the enduring legacy of the Church of Panagia Paramythia.
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Özyeğin University held an opening ceremony for the restoration of the historic Panagia Paramythia Church in Istanbul's Fener neighborhood. The project is being carried out with the support of the U.S. Ambassadors Fund for Cultural Preservation (AFCP). Hosted by Aslıhan Ünlü, Dean of the Faculty of Architecture and Design at Özyeğin University, the event was also attended by U.S. Consul General Julie Eadeh.
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