Istanbul's Chora Church Converted Back into Mosque

The Church of San Salvatore in Chora (Kariye Muzesi) in Istanbul has been reconverted into a mosque, reopening in early May 2024 after a long restoration. Originally built as an Orthodox church in the 5th century, it was converted into a mosque under Beyazıt II (1481–1512), then became a museum in 1958 after restoration by the Byzantine Institute of America and Dumbarton Oaks. On July 10, 2020, a presidential decree by Recep Tayyip Erdogan ordered its conversion back to a mosque, alongside Hagia Sophia. The building is famed for its 14th-century mosaics and frescoes commissioned by Theodore Metochites, which will now be covered by drapes and red carpets during prayer times. The decision has sparked criticism from Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis and heritage experts like Burcin Altinsay Ozguner, who argue the site should remain a museum. The conversion is part of Erdogan's broader policy of transforming Byzantine churches into mosques, which he frames as a restoration effort covering over 200 historical artifacts during his 20+ years in power. Chora has been a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1985.