First Islamic prayer sounds in Orthodox Chora Monastery in Istanbul
Ancient frescoes of the Chora Monastery in Istanbul. Photo: ertnews.gr
On May 6, 2024, the ancient Byzantine Orthodox Monastery of Chora in Istanbul, Turkey, officially became a mosque, as reported by ertnews.gr.
During a ceremony marking the completion of the "restoration" of architectural monuments in Turkey, President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan stated that the country's authorities "pay close attention to protecting the cultural heritage of the nation."
In response, the Mufti of Istanbul, Safi Arpagius, mentioned that the Chora Monastery is "being restored and reopened to Muslim believers after 79 years."
At that moment, the President of Turkey ordered to cut the ribbon at the monastery's door: "You have scissors in your hands, and the ribbon is in front of you. Let's all say 'for Allah' together and cut the ribbon. Good luck!"
Afterwards, the first Islamic prayer was performed inside the Orthodox church in the Monastery of Chora.
Earlier, the UOJ reported that Erdogan would participate in the first prayer at the Chora Monastery.
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