Eski Imaret Mosque

Eski Imaret Mosque (Eski Imaret Camii) is a former Byzantine church in Fatih, Istanbul, traditionally identified as the Monastery of Christ Pantepoptes. Built in the 11th century, it is the only intact church from that period in the city, yet remains one of the least studied.

Originally a convent founded by Anna Dalassena before 1087, it became a Roman Catholic church during the Latin occupation (1204–1261). After the Ottoman conquest (1453), it was converted into a mosque, while monastic buildings served as a zaviye, medrese, and imaret for the Fatih Mosque.

The building features Middle Byzantine architecture, a cross-in-square plan, and a U-shaped gallery, possibly for the Empress-Mother. Its scalloped dome and recessed brick technique make it architecturally significant. The original interior is mostly lost, except for some marble details.

Restored in the 1970s and 1990s, another restoration began in 2015 but was later halted. As of 2024, it remains under restoration.

Address
Küçük Mektepli Sokak 11, Istanbul, Turkey

Established
11th century