St. Irene
Hagia Irene, which stands on the first base-court of Topkapı Palace, was built in the time of Emperor Justinian in the 6th century. It is a typical Byzantine construction with its materials and architecture. It is the unique church with an atrium that has survived until today in Istanbul. After the conquest of Istanbul in 1453, no big change was made in the building since it was not transformed into a mosque. Hagia Irene, which is one of the first churches of Byzantine, reflects all the architectural aspects of the period of Justinian I. Hagia Irene, which was named as Müze-i Hümayun (the Imperial Museum) in 1869 after being used as booty storage and armory for a long time and has been used as a military museum since 1908, is also used for concerts and performances through being reserved for various events, particularly festivals.
Other
Things to Do
Galata Tower
Built in 528; used as dungeon in the 15th century and fire observatory in the 16th century, the great landmark of the Genoese architecture from which Hezarfen Ahmet Çelebi took his flight on wooden wings, now serves as a touristic site.
Rahmi M. Koc Museum
Rahmi M. Koç museum is built over an area of 27,000 square meters. It is the one and only industrial museum of Turkey. It is a fun and educational social environment.
Istanbul Modern
Istanbul Modern is one of the first addresses that have changed the 'understanding of classical museum in the city with the social programs and education projects which it has hosted.