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The Kariye Museum, the 11th-century church of "St. Savior"
in the Chora complex, is, after Hagia Sophia, the most important
Byzantine monument in Istanbul Unremarkable in its architecture, inside,
the walls are decorated with superb 14th-century mosaics. Illustrating
scenes from the life of Christ and the Virgin Mary, these brilliantly
colored paintings embody the vigor of Byzantine art. In restored wooden
houses in the area surrounding the church you can enjoy tea and coffee
in a relaxed atmosphere far removed from the city's hectic pace.
Open days to visit: Everyday except Tuesday. |
