Vlaherna Mary Mother Church in Istanbul: photos, reviews

About

Nestled in the charming Ayvansaray neighborhood of Istanbul, the Vlaherna Meryem Ana Church stands as a stunning testament to Byzantine architecture. Since its opening in 1867, this Greek Orthodox church has attracted visitors with its serene garden and sacred spring water. Historically known as the Church of St. Mary of Blachernae, it is also famous for the Blachernítissa, an iconic painting of the Virgin Mary on wood.

Rated an impressive 4.7 on Google, it is a place of deep historical and spiritual significance. On the five Fridays of Lent, the sacred Akathist hymn to the Defender General Panagia Mary resonates through its walls. Pilgrims often come to fill bottles with the holy water, believed to have healing properties.

Open every day from 9 am to 5 pm, the Vlaherna Meryem Ana Church invites visitors to explore its spiritual and historical richness, all without an admission fee.

Features

Wheelchair accessible

How to get here?

The nearest public transport options for your convenience.

Şehit Tolga Ecebalın

Bus stop 109 m walk

Ayvansaray

Tram stop 137 m walk

Balat Hastanesi

Bus stop 239 m walk

Ayvansaray Eyüpsultan

Bus stop 397 m walk

4.7

based on 1,173 reviews

Google

4.7/5 1,173 reviews

nursel kırlı

Harika bir kilise, görülmeye değer

Lebhotelier

Beautiful old historic little church with a natural holy water spring inside. However the mass service according to the priest’s helper when I visited is on Fridays only from 9am to 11am in Greek language. Not sure why they don’t also do on Sunday which is when most people could come.

عمار طه اليافعي

أللهم أنصر إخوتنا في غزة وكل المسلمين في كل بقاع الأرض

Vlaherna Mary Mother Church in Istanbul

About

Features

How to get here?

Reviews and Ratings