Chora Church Museum Tickets and Audio Guide
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The Chora Church (Kariye Mosque) Skip the Line Ticket with Istanbul Tourist Pass®
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Discover Chora: A Hidden Byzantine Treasure in Istanbul
Step into a world of art and history at the Chora Church Museum, where stunning Byzantine mosaics and frescoes transport you to another era. Skip the lines with a QR ticket and explore the stories of this beautifully restored gem with a specially curated audio guide. From its origins as a Byzantine church to its transformation into an Ottoman mosque, the Chora Museum offers a captivating journey through time.
Uncover this hidden masterpiece and experience one of Istanbul's most awe-inspiring landmarks today!
Please note that Chora Museum is closed to visitors on Fridays.
About The Chora Church Museum Tickets and Audio Guide
Istanbul Tourist Pass® is all digital - No need for a printed voucher
Duration: Unlimited Free Time in Chora Museum - Audio guide: approx. 20 minutes
Highlights
Skip the long lines with a convenient online QR ticket.
Marvel at the breathtaking Byzantine mosaics and frescoes.
Explore the rich history from a Byzantine church to an Ottoman mosque.
Enjoy a curated audio guide that brings the Chora Museum's stories to life.
Admire the intricate details and vibrant colors of Late Byzantine art.
Take your time to explore at your own pace with unlimited entry.
Discover one of Istanbul’s hidden gems and a true masterpiece of art and architecture.
Includes
Chora Museum Entrance Ticket
Specially curated audio guide in English
About the Chora Church Museum
The Chora Church Museum Skip-the-Line Ticket and Audio Guide Experience offers you an unparalleled opportunity to explore one of Istanbul’s most remarkable landmarks without the hassle of waiting in long lines.
With our convenient QR online ticket, you’ll gain immediate access to the museum and be able to delve into its rich history through an expertly curated audio guide. Discover the stunning Byzantine mosaics and frescoes, learn about the museum’s fascinating transformation from a Byzantine church to an Ottoman mosque, and enjoy a personalized exploration at your own pace. Don’t miss out on this unique cultural experience—purchase your Istanbul Tourist Pass® and secure your entry to the Chora Museum today!
Hours & Meeting
Opening time: 09:00
Closing time: 18:00
Opening time: 09:00
Closing time: 18:00
Closed Days
Fridays
How To Get There?
The Chora Museum is located in the Edirnekapı district of Istanbul, making it easily accessible by public transportation.
You can take the M2 metro line to Vezneciler station and then transfer to the T4 tram towards Topkapı.
Disembark at the Edirnekapı stop, and from there, it's a short walk to the museum.
Alternatively, several bus lines, such as 31E, 37E, 38E, and 36KE, also stop near Edirnekapı.
The museum is located at Dervişali Mah. Kariye Camii Sk. No:18, 34087 Edirnekapı/Fatih, Istanbul.
To enter the Chora Museum, all non-Muslim visitors should now access the grounds from Kariye Türbesi Street on the north side and then proceed to the entrance on the south side.
Get DirectionsImportant Information
- No shorts are permitted for men or women. Women must cover their heads; scarves are available for purchase at the entrance.
- Entrance for non-Muslim visitors is through the Visitor Entrance, next to the Ebu Said El Hudri Tomb.
- The museum is closed on Fridays for prayer.
- No flash photography or supplemental lighting is allowed inside the museum.
- Mosaics in the prayer section are covered in accordance with Muslim traditions.
- QR tickets are only shown when you are near the entrance; an Internet connection is required.
- Visitors must pass through a security check at the entrance.
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Chora Mosque Museum entrance ticket is Discounted with Istanbul Tourist Pass®️.
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All About Chora Church Museum Tickets and Audio Guide
Discover the art and history at the Chora Church Museum, where stunning Byzantine mosaics and frescoes transport you to another era. Skip the lines with our convenient QR ticket and immerse yourself in the stories of this beautifully restored gem with a specially curated audio guide. From its origins as a Byzantine church to its transformation into an Ottoman mosque, the Chora Museum offers a captivating journey through time. Uncover this hidden masterpiece and experience one of Istanbul's most awe-inspiring landmarks today!
The History of Chora Church Museum
Originally built in the 4th century as part of a monastery complex outside the ancient walls of Constantinople, Chora Church has a long and storied history. During the Byzantine era, it was rebuilt and decorated with stunning mosaics and frescoes that reflect the peak of Late Byzantine art. In the 16th century, after the Ottoman conquest, the church was converted into a mosque. In the 20th century, it was transformed into a museum, offering visitors a unique glimpse into both Byzantine and Ottoman history.
The Magnificent Mosaics and Frescoes
The Chora Museum is most famous for its breathtaking mosaics and frescoes, which depict religious scenes from the life of Jesus Christ, the Virgin Mary, and various saints. These artworks cover the walls and ceilings, showcasing the artistic mastery of the Byzantine Empire. The vibrant colors and intricate details of the mosaics are a testament to the skill and creativity of the 14th-century artisans.
From the Byzantine Church to the Ottoman Mosque
The transition of Chora from a Byzantine church to an Ottoman mosque represents the cultural and religious shifts that Istanbul has experienced throughout its history. While much of the Byzantine artwork remains intact, certain mosaics have been covered in accordance with Muslim traditions. Today, Chora stands as a testament to the coexistence of different cultures and religions in Istanbul’s past.
Why Visit Chora Church Museum?
Chora Church Museum is considered one of the finest examples of Byzantine art, and its mosaics and frescoes are among the best-preserved in the world. Visiting Chora allows you to immerse yourself in the rich history of both the Byzantine and Ottoman periods while marveling at the exquisite craftsmanship of the artwork. It's a must-see for art lovers, history buffs, and anyone interested in the cultural heritage of Istanbul.
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Advantages Of Istanbul Tourist Pass®
By having the Istanbul Tourist Pass®, you can visit more than 100+ attractions in Istanbul. You can save huge amount of time and money by not waiting in the long queues or paying fees at the entrances of the museums or for other facilities and activities. You can buy the Istanbul Tourist Pass®️ for 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7 or 10 days. So many attractions are available with Istanbul Tourist Pass®️ such as Topkapı Palace, Hagia Sophia, Dolmabahçe Palace, Sapanca Lake daily tour, Dinner on the Bosphorus, Istanbul Airport Shuttle etc. included in the pass. For more details and updated attractions available with the pass can be found on website.
Chora Church Museum Tickets and Audio Guide Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Chora Museum?
When was the Chora Museum built?
The original church was built in the 4th century, but the current building dates back to the 14th century.
What is the significance of the mosaics and frescoes in Chora Church?
These artworks are considered masterpieces of Byzantine art, depicting religious scenes and historical events.
Is the Chora Museum open to the public?
Yes, the Chora Museum is open to visitors daily except for Fridays. Muslim visitors can enter for praying but all non-Muslim visitors must use the visitor entrance.
Are there any restrictions on photography?
Flash photography and supplemental lighting are not allowed.
Is there a dress code to enter the Chora Museum?
Yes, visitors must adhere to a modest dress code. Men and women are not allowed to wear shorts, and women must cover their heads.
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The Chora Museum is a historical landmark in Istanbul known for its stunning mosaics and frescoes.