Centuries-old legends from the island of Rhodes whispered of a crucial contribution to the majestic Hagia Sophia: the very bricks used to construct its magnificent domes. Now, cutting-edge scientific research has confirmed these whispers, revealing that the iconic structure owes its strength and lightness to the unique clay of this small Aegean island. Discover the fascinating story of how Rhodian materials and Byzantine ingenuity combined to create one of the world's architectural marvels.
Tag: Constantinople
A photo of former Trump advisor Steve Bannon wearing a "Free Constantinople" t-shirt has stirred controversy in Turkey, with many viewing it as a provocation. The image, shared by commentator Rahim Kassam, has sparked extensive debate and media coverage, highlighting the potential for social media to inflame geopolitical tensions.
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan's recent comments on Jerusalem raise significant questions about Turkey's sovereignty over Istanbul. While his government claims to protect religious heritage, Erdoğan's actions, such as the conversion of major Christian landmarks into mosques, tell a different story. These moves not only challenge the status of Jerusalem but also highlight concerns about religious freedom and minority rights within Turkey. As discussions on Jerusalem’s status unfold, the international community may reconsider its stance on Istanbul's sovereignty.
In 1453, as the ancient walls of Constantinople crumbled under Ottoman cannons, an unexpected chain…
The video was first posted on Instagram by the lyra player from Rethymno, Giannis Giannakakis.…
Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew presided over the feast of St. Andrew in Istanbul, bestowing honors, welcoming a delegation from Rome, and emphasizing the importance of interfaith dialogue and peace amidst global conflicts. He also expressed optimism for the reopening of the Halki Theological School.
A Greek mother's Istanbul shopping trip turned into a "Midnight Express"-like ordeal after she accidentally took a shopkeeper's phone. Despite the shopkeeper withdrawing his complaint, she remains in Turkey facing trial, separated from her deported daughter. Her family pleads for her return.
Pope Francis has expressed his wish to visit Turkey in 2025 to commemorate the 1,700th anniversary of the Council of Nicaea. This visit will align with the Pope's Holy Year celebrations and aims to foster dialogue with Orthodox Christians, highlighting the historical significance of Nicaea in both church and human history.
The Hellenic Lyceum of Sydney transported audiences on a captivating journey through 1,000 years of…
A pair of 1,500-year-old sandals, inscribed with a Greek message wishing the wearer health and beauty, has been unearthed during excavations in Istanbul. This remarkable find, along with other significant discoveries, is shedding new light on the city's rich history.
Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew opened a conference commemorating the 60th anniversary of the 1964 expulsion of thousands of Greeks from Constantinople. He described the event as an "unhealed wound" and drew parallels to modern-day displacement. The conference also honored the late historian Alexis Alexandris.
Kebabs, tzigerosarmades, dolmades, and even Aegean dishes are served with jazz, rock, soul, and grunge…
SKY Express has launched daily flights between Athens and Istanbul Airport, strengthening the airport's position as a global aviation hub. The new route is expected to boost tourism and diplomatic relations between Greece and Turkey.
The historic Greek-language newspaper Apoyevmatini marks a century of news and service to the Greek community in Istanbul. Established on July 12, 1925, it stands as Turkey's oldest continuously published newspaper. A documentary by Bellek 365, titled "100: Apoyevmatini," delves into the newspaper’s pivotal role within the community, featuring interviews with past and present employees and insights from prominent figures such as Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew. Editor-in-Chief Mihail Vasiliadis and his son Minas Vasiliadis continue to uphold the newspaper’s legacy with dedication and passion.
On October 28, the Greek Orthodox Church commemorates the Feast Day of the Protection of…
The Greek Deputy Culture Minister, Jason Fotilas, has just completed a whirlwind journey to Australia…
The Monreale Cathedral in Sicily has unveiled its stunningly restored mosaics, bringing new life to the 12th-century masterpieces. The ambitious project saw the cleaning and repair of the vast mosaic collection, as well as the implementation of a new lighting system designed to highlight the artwork's vibrant colors and intricate details.
His All-Holiness Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew departed from the Phanar, the Patriarchate's historic seat in Istanbul, today, Thursday, September 19, 2024, to commence a multi-day visit to Greece. The Patriarch’s itinerary includes visits to several Metropolises, reflecting the deep connection between the Ecumenical Patriarchate and the Orthodox faithful in Greece. He will also participate in and address the Panimbrian Conference in Athens and attend a concert at the Herodes Atticus Odeon to support schools in his native Imbros.
Dimitris Papadimitriou, a 78-year-old Greek retiree who had been missing since early September, was discovered in Constantinople and safely reunited with his family. After getting lost in the city, his disappearance led to days of uncertainty and concern. Thanks to the collaboration between Greek consulate officials and Turkish police, and a crucial tip from a taxi driver, Mr. Papadimitriou is now back with his relieved family.
September 6-7, 1955: Turkey’s Kristallnacht By Uzay Bulut September 6, 1955, started just like any other…