This tour has so many unpopular but still stunning religious destinations that will surprise you;

The St. Savior Chora Church is an ancient Byzantine church that is often overlooked, but is truly a remarkable one. Adorned with vibrant frescoes from the 14th century depicting scenes from the Old Testament, as well as intricate mosaics showcasing the stories of the New Testament; this hidden gem is like a visual representation of the entire Bible. Exploring the church is akin to leafing through the pages of a holy book, with each icon offering a new chapter to discover.

Anemas Dungeons (Prison) is a Byzantine prison named after Michael Anemas, a Byzantine general who led a failed revolt against Emperor Alexios I Komnenos in 12th century. He was the first major prisoner followed by numerous prominent individuals - including emperors during the final centuries of the Byzantine Empire.  The Panaghia Blachernae Church is an Eastern Orthodox church that held immense significance during the latter part of the Byzantine era until its conquest in 1453. Some considered it even more important than the renowned Hagia Sophia due to its proximity to the Palace of the Blachernae. The church housed powerful icons such as the Vlacherntissa, which was believed to protect the city during its besieging by the armies of the Avars and Persians. It has long been known that the besiege failed after the Vlacherntissa was carried along the ramparts by Constantine.

Cabir Mosque, also called Atik Mustafa Mosque, is a former Eastern Orthodox church in Istanbul, converted into a mosque by the Ottomans. This unique building is the sole remaining Byzantine church in the city from the ninth century that features a cross-domed design. It was once the home of the robe of Mary, which had been brought to Constantinople from Jerusalem by two Christian nobles. The garment was stored here until Justinian commanded that it be relocated to the Church of Blachernae.

The Church of St. Demetrius Kanabu, also known as Aya Dimitri Church or Ayios Dimitrios Law Church, showcases a striking Greek Orthodox design, and the 16th century Church of Panaghia Balinu will be seen from outside.  Ferruh Kethuda Mosque is a 16th century mosque designed by Mimar Sinan and commissioned by Ferruh Kethuda, an Ottoman Turkish title meaning "steward, deputy, or lieutenant". The Armenian Church of Surp Hirasdagabe is a 17th century, Greek Orthodox church dedicated to the archangels Michael and Gabriel. It was gifted by Ottoman Sultan Murad IV to Armenians in need of a new Gregorian church in Balat.

Ahrida Synagogue, a 17th century house of worship founded by Jewish immigrants from Ohri, Macedonia, is important as one of the few surviving Byzantine synagogues. Teva’s shape resembles a ship’s bow, which represents Noah’s Ark or the ship that brought Sephardim Jews from Spain to Istanbul.

The Patriarchate, along with the Church of St. George, serves as the primary Eastern Orthodox cathedral in Istanbul, and it is the largest one in the city. This religious institution is considered the global center of Orthodox Christianity. The church's wooden iconostasis, adorned with gold leaf, is a magnificent representation of the art of woodcarving, crafted by two skilled artisans over a span of 40 years.

The Greek Lycee of Fener is a majestic red-brick building and is the one that has a distinctive architectural style on the Golden Horn. It was a renowned Greek Orthodox school situated in Istanbul, Turkey. As the oldest surviving educational institution of its kind, it holds significant historical value. It's worth noting that, as with all minority schools in Turkey, the school operates as a secular educational institution.

The Church of Mouchliotissa (St. Mary of the Mongols), founded circa 1292, is a striking rose-red structure that stands out due to its unique four-leaf clover plan. The architectural design is of great interest, and it is the only Byzantine sanctuary that has remained under Greek ownership since the Byzantine era.

A remarkable tour comes to an end; however, you can sign up to take advantage of TSG credits, and this is the best way to snag credits and use them for your next trips as a discount, as well as to hear about the hot deals according to your interests.