In Trace of Christianity- Private Tour

Join us for this pilgrimage to some of the most symbolic churches of old Constantinople, the heart of Orthodox Christianity. As the capital of the Byzantine Empire for more than 1,000 years, the city has a wealth of religious architecture. This guided tour, available in either half or full-day formats, takes in some of the most emblematic religious buildings in Istanbul. Start at the Church of Panagia of Blachernae, famed for its fountain of holy water, which is believed to cure ill health, and the sacred bath, which is said to cleanse soul and where emperors would go to purify themselves. Be dazzled by the mosaics and frescoes portraying scenes from the Bible at the Church of St Saviour in Chora. View the vast Pantocrator monastic complex, comprised of two churches, a chapel, baths, a hospital and more. See the 11th century Church of St Mary Pammacaristos, which housed the Patriarchate after the Ottoman conquest. Marvel at the Life-giving Spring (Zoodochos Pege) dedicated to the Mother of God, famed for its underground cistern and holy fountain. Be impressed by the Church of St Sergius & Bacchus, which is known as the Little Hagia Sophia, and by Hagia Eirene, an ancient patriarchal church next to Hagia Sophia. Admire Hagia Sophia, its vast height and dimensions a testament to man’s ingenuity and faith in God. For the half-day tour, the itinerary sees visits to the Patriarchate, the Church of Panagia of Blachernae and to St Saviour in Chora. While the Pantocrator, Church of St Mary Pammacaristos, the Life-giving Spring and the Church of St Sergius & Bacchus will be seen from the outside only. Languages English, French, German and Spanish. Redeem informationVoucher type: PrintedPrinted Voucher. Print and bring the voucher to enjoy the activity.LocationStarting point: Pick-up available from both the Old City and the New City areas. If your hotel is not located in these areas, please make your way to the meeting point: Hilton Istanbul Bosphorus (Hotel reception), Harbiye Mahallesi, Cumhuriyet Cd. No:50, 34367 Şişli/İstanbul. Please call 24 hours in advance to confirm the pick up time and location.End point: Same as starting pointScheduleOpening dates08:00 - 13:3008:00 - 17:00Guiding optionsGuiding type: Guide