There is general agreement that this building began as a Byzantine church. After that, the debate diverges. Mamboury insists that it was dedicated to St Andrew in about 767 and goes on to provide a detailed biography of the place through the ages. Freely thinks it might be from the 13th century but used recognisable bits from the 6th century. It hardly looks Byzantine at all after the restorations and additions since then.
It’s a nice place to be (41.003545,28.928504). It has become a real community centre, with frequent events that are attended well by the community. These include church fete-type fundraisers where you can buy old books and a nice lunch. There is an ancient tree sticking out of a türbe where women go to pray for the acquisition of husband material. Legend has it that the chain still hanging from the dead wood would once indicate which out of two disputants which was telling the truth. Page 107 of van Millingen has the tale of how the chain lost its judicial reputation.
A fine pair of Byzantine columns in active service.
Christian symbols on the capitals have been covered but the carving remains sharp and intricate.
The many additions and reconstructions during the Ottoman period mean that the building has never needed major reconstruction in modern times. This, in turn, means that there has never been the opportunity to expose the fabric of the church for comprehensive study.
The church building from the east with a multitude of Ottoman additions.
Northern front of the mosque with Byzantine columns supporting a very non-Byzantine structure.
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