Turkey Converts Chora Church into a Mosque
After the historic conversion of Hagia Sophia, Turkey's President Erdogan has now signed an edict to convert Chora Church into a mosque as well.
After the historic conversion of Hagia Sophia into a mosque, Turkey’s President Erdogan has now signed an edict to convert Chora Church into a mosque as well. Chora Church, also known as Kariye Church in Turkey, was initially built in the 4th century, though the current building mostly dates back to the 11th century.
Chora Church is one of the most celebrated Byzantine buildings in Turkey. It was built near the ancient city walls of Constantinople and is filled with 14th century Byzantine mosaics and frescoes showing scenes from biblical stories.
These were covered up when the city was taken over by the Ottomans in 1453. Just like Hagia Sophia, however, they were uncovered when Chora Church was converted into a museum in 1945. Last year this decision was annulled by the Turkish courts.
The edict signed by Turkey’s President Erdogan does not specify when the first Friday prayers will be offered in the newly converted Chora mosque or what will be done to the Christian artwork. In Hagia Sophia, they had drawn curtains over the image facing worshippers of Mary and the infant Jesus.
What do you think about the conversion of Chora Church into a mosque by Turkey? Let us know what you think about it in the comments!
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