In this audio guide, Emily Thompson takes you through Kariye Mosque telling the story as you walk. In your accent, no need to read signs — just let your eyes take in what's in front of you.

What you'll hear inside Kariye Mosque:

1
Exonarthex (Outer Narthex)
The exonarthex is the outermost transverse corridor of Kariye Camii — 4 m wide and 23 m long — serving as the first point of entry.
2
Esonarthex (Inner Narthex)
The esonarthex runs parallel to the exonarthex — 4 m wide and 18 m long — linking the entrance to the naos and parecclesion.
3
Naos (Main Nave)
The naos is the church's main body, dominated by its largest dome — 7.7 m in diameter.
4
Paraclesion (Funerary Chapel)
The parecclesion is the funerary chapel adjoining Kariye Camii, to the right of the exonarthex.
5
Anastasis Fresco
The Anastasis fresco presides over the apse of the parecclesion and is the masterpiece of Kariye Camii.
6
Mosaic of the Koimesis (Dormition of the Virgin)
Above the central doorway of the naos, this mosaic shows Christ holding a swaddled infant representing Mary's soul at her passing — a striking reversal of the traditional Madonna and Child image.
7
Mosaic of Christ Pantocrator
The Christ Pantocrator mosaic sits above the portal linking the exonarthex to the inner narthex, making it the first powerful image encountered on entering the complex and the visual anchor of the…
8
Arcosolium of Theodore Metochites
Set into the north wall of the parecclesion, this arcosolium is the final resting place of Theodore Metochites — the statesman and humanist who funded and oversaw the complex's remarkable…
9
Arcosolium with the Tomb of Michael Tornikes
Set into the south wall of the parecclesion, the arcosolium of Michael Tornikes forms one of two honorary tombs that flank the frescoes symmetrically, lending a sense of solemnity to this sacred…
10
Ottoman Minaret (southwest corner)
The Ottoman minaret at the south-west corner of the Kariye Camii was added following the building's conversion to a mosque in 1511, under Grand Vizier Atık Ali Paşa.

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