Adalar

Historic Religious Sites

The Princes' Islands host a concentrated collection of religious architecture reflecting Istanbul’s multicultural history. This list spans the four main islands—Büyükada, Heybeliada, Burgazada, and Kınalıada—highlighting prominent Greek Orthodox monasteries, Armenian apostolic churches, and late-Ottoman mosques. Key sites include the historic Halki Seminary on Heybeliada and the hilltop Aya Yorgi on Büyükada, which serves as a significant pilgrimage site. These structures represent centuries of Byzantine and Ottoman spiritual traditions preserved within the islands' quiet, car-free landscapes.

Hagios Giorgios Church

Perched on the highest peak of Büyükada, this 18th-century monastery is a major pilgrimage site. Visitors traditionally walk the steep path uphill on April 23rd to make wishes.

Aya Nikola Manastırı

A Greek Orthodox monastery located on the eastern coast of Büyükada, dedicated to Saint Nicholas, the patron saint of sailors.

Metamorphosis Manastırı

Situated on the Hill of Christ in Burgazada, this monastery was rebuilt in the 19th century on the ruins of a Byzantine structure.

Holy Trinity Monastery of Halki

Located on Heybeliada, this monastery is home to the Halki Seminary, which served as the primary theological school for the Ecumenical Patriarchate until 1971.

Aya Yani Kilisesi

This 19th-century church on Burgazada is built over a historic dungeon where the Byzantine Saint Methodius was once imprisoned.

Kinkor Ermeni Kilisesi

Also known as Surp Krikor Lusavoriç, this 1857 church on Kınalıada is the central place of worship for the island's Armenian community.

Hamidiye Mosque

Commissioned by Sultan Abdul Hamid II in 1895, this Büyükada mosque features a distinctive square minaret and neoclassical architectural details.

Nizam Camii

A modern mosque serving the local community in the Nizam neighborhood of Büyükada.

Burgazada Camii

Built in 1953 to mark the 500th anniversary of the Fall of Constantinople, this mosque is a prominent landmark on the Burgazada waterfront.

Heybeliada Camii

The central mosque of Heybeliada, located near the island's harbor and commercial center.

Skete of Saint Spyridon

A secluded seaside skete on Heybeliada, founded in the 19th century by a monk seeking solitude, featuring a small chapel and gardens.

Vaftizci Yahya Manastırı

A Greek Orthodox monastery on Heybeliada dedicated to Saint John the Baptist, known for its quiet courtyard and historic icons.

Greek Orthodox Monastery

Located on the highest point of Kınalıada, this monastery houses remains of Byzantine-era structures and offers panoramic views of the Marmara Sea.

Aya Nikola Rum Ortodoks Kilisesi

A 19th-century Greek Orthodox church on Heybeliada, featuring traditional architecture and dedicated to the patron saint of sailors.

Hacı Havva Özen Camii

A neighborhood mosque on Büyükada providing a place of worship for the local Muslim population.