Zeyrek Mosque in Istanbul is a former Byzantine monastic complex originally constructed as the Monastery of Christ Pantokrator in the 12th century during the reign of Emperor John II Komnenos. The complex consisted of three interconnected churches and served as one of the most important religious and intellectual centers in Constantinople, housing a library, hospital, and burial spaces for imperial figures. Following the Ottoman conquest of Constantinople in 1453, the complex was converted into a mosque and became known as Zeyrek Mosque. It remains one of the largest surviving examples of Middle Byzantine architecture in the city and forms part of the Historic Areas of Istanbul UNESCO World Heritage Site. Restoration efforts in the 21st century have aimed to stabilize and preserve its layered Byzantine and Ottoman architectural elements.
Key Facts
- Materials
- Brick, Stone
- Civilization
- Byzantine
- Current Function
- Mosque
- Date(s)
- 1118–1143 CE
- Condition
- Restored and active religious site
- Original Function
- Monastic complex (Monastery of Christ Pantokrator)
- Key Figures
- Emperor John II Komnenos, Empress Irene of Hungary
Foundation and Construction
1118–1143 CEThe complex was commissioned by Byzantine Emperor John II Komnenos and his wife Irene of Hungary. It was constructed as the Monastery of Christ Pantokrator and included three churches: a main church dedicated to Christ Pantokrator, a secondary church dedicated to the Virgin Eleousa, and an imperial chapel. The site functioned as both a religious and charitable institution, with attached hospital and library facilities.
Komnenian and Late Byzantine Period
12th–15th centuriesThe monastery became one of the most prominent religious institutions in Constantinople and served as an imperial burial site. Members of the Komnenian dynasty were interred within the complex. It remained active throughout the late Byzantine period, although it experienced decline during the Latin occupation (1204–1261).
Ottoman Conversion
15th centuryFollowing the Ottoman conquest of Constantinople in 1453, the complex was converted into a mosque. It was named after Molla Zeyrek, a scholar who established a madrasa in the former monastic buildings. Structural modifications were made to adapt the churches for Islamic worship, including the addition of a mihrab and minaret.
Modern Restoration
20th–21st centuriesThe building suffered from structural deterioration over centuries but retained significant Byzantine architectural features. Extensive restoration efforts were undertaken in the late 20th and early 21st centuries to stabilize the structure and preserve both its Byzantine and Ottoman elements. It reopened for worship and visitors after major conservation work.