Aya Triada (Holy Trinity) Church in Taksim: the Orthodox church of the square

Updated on October 8, 2026

A few steps from Taksim Square, at the end of Meşelik Street, Aya Triada (Agia Triada in Greek, Hagia Triada in English, "Holy Trinity") is the largest Greek Orthodox church in Istanbul. It was built between 1876 and 1880 on the site of a former Greek hospital and cemetery, to plans by the architect Konstantinos Yolasığmazis, in a Neo-Baroque and Neo-Byzantine style. Thanks to the Tanzimat reforms, it was the first domed church built in Constantinople since Byzantine times. It remains an active place of worship for the city's Greek community, which calls for a discreet visit: allow 15 to 30 minutes.

Highlights

The facade and the dome

Seen from outside, the church stands out from the neighbouring buildings with its dome, rare in a city where many Orthodox churches stay discreet. Even a few minutes from the Taksim crowds, the surroundings remain calm.

The doorway and the details

The decoration mixes Baroque motifs and Byzantine references, typical of churches of the Tanzimat era. The doorway is the best viewpoint for a photograph.

The interior, when open

According to several travel sources, visitors are generally welcome outside services, but often only the narthex is open: you can light a candle there and see a few icons. If the church is closed and the caretaker is around, you can ask whether you may go in.

Practical info

Tips

Entry is free; donations are welcome. This is a working place of worship: dress modestly (shoulders and knees covered), keep your phone silent, and do not take photographs during a service or of worshippers praying. The church suffered violence during the pogrom of 6-7 September 1955 but withstood the fire that rioters tried to set; Istanbul's Greek community is very small today (about 150 worshippers are cited for this parish), and the church is a place of memory as much as of worship. To compare with other places of worship in the city, see our guide to churches and synagogues in Istanbul, and for the nearby Catholic church, the page on St Anthony of Padua. Sources consulted in October 2026; no official site confirming opening hours could be found.

How to get there

Meşelik Sokak, Katip Çelebi district, Beyoğlu, about 3 minutes on foot from Taksim Square. Metro M2, Taksim station, then a few minutes' walk (follow Meşelik Street). The nostalgic tram T2 and the F1 funicular (from Kabataş) also arrive at Taksim. From İstiklal Avenue, walk down to Taksim Square, then allow a few more minutes.