The Church of St Mary of the Mongols
The Church of St Mary of the Mongols also known as the Zoodochos Pege Church was founded in the 13th century by Maria Palaiologina, who was the daughter of the Byzantine Emperor Michael VIII Palaiologos. Maria married the Mongol Khan Abaqa, and upon her return to Constantinople (now Istanbul), she built the church as an expression of her faith and as a place of worship for the Greek Orthodox community.
Church of Saint Mary of the Mongols
The church gets its alternative name, "St Mary of the Mongols," from Maria Palaiologina's Mongol background. The marriage alliance between Maria and Abaqa was seen as a strategic alliance between the Byzantine Empire and the Mongols.
The Church of St Mary of the Mongols showcases a mix of Byzantine and Mongolian architectural influences. It follows a cross-in-square plan with a central dome and features intricate brickwork and stone carvings. The exterior of the church is adorned with ornate decorations, including geometric patterns and elaborate friezes.
Over time, the church was converted into a convent for nuns, and it served as a center for religious education and community activities. The nuns of the convent were responsible for maintaining the church and its religious traditions.
