Istanbul Greek Orthodox Patriarchate (İstanbul Rum Ortodoks Patrikhanesi), which is the center of the patriarchate seen as the representative of Orthodox Christians, is located in Balat. Greek Orthodox Patriarchate, one of the most important religious structures of Istanbul, is the symbolic leader of the Greek Orthodox world.
With Emperor Constantine moving the capital of the Roman Empire to Istanbul, Istanbul gained vital value for Christians. Constantine aimed to increase his political power by giving Patriarchate and Ecumenical status to Constantinople Diocese.
This situation caused a struggle between Christians in the east and west. After the conquest, Fatih Sultan Mehmet ensured the continuation of the patriarchate and kept the authority leading the Eastern European Christians under his control.
The Patriarchate, which is a very important structure for the Christian world, moved to Aya Yorgi Church, which was used as a monastery in 1602. The interior decoration of the patriarchate, which has a simple architecture, draws attention.
