Historic Wooden Greek Orphanage in Büyükada to Undergo Landmark Restoration Partnership

 

Historic Wooden Greek Orphanage in Büyükada to Undergo Landmark Restoration Partnership

A landmark restoration project has been launched to save the historic Greek orphanage in Büyükada, known as the largest wooden building in Europe, from decades of advanced structural deterioration. The property owner, the Greek Orthodox Patriarchate, formalized an agreement on June 15, 2026, during a ceremony attended by Greek Orthodox Patriarch Bartholomew and Australia Archbishop Makarios Griniezakis.

The restoration will be executed through a partnership with Turkish conglomerate Bilgili Holding and a Greece-based sustainable tourism and real estate firm. Originally designed by Levantine architect Alexandre Vallaury and completed in 1898 as the Prinkipo Palace luxury hotel, the building was converted into an orphanage in 1903. It has remained abandoned since its closure in 1964. The international partners have pledged to preserve the original architectural character of the 206-room structure and return it to active use.

Source: Hürriyet Daily News

Cultural and Natural Highlights in Istanbul: From Turquoise Bosphorus Waters to Historic Attractions

 

Cultural and Natural Highlights in Istanbul: From Turquoise Bosphorus Waters to Historic Attractions

Istanbul continues to captivate global tourists with its unique blend of history, natural phenomena, and dynamic urban life. Recently, a striking natural occurrence saw the waters of the Bosphorus strait turn a vivid turquoise, drawing immense crowds to the shoreline to photograph the event. Alongside natural wonders, the city's historic sites remain central to its tourism sector; the Hagia Sophia continues to be recognized as the "Crown Jewel" of the city.

For residents seeking an escape from the summer heat, the idyllic, car-free Princes' Islands offer a tranquil retreat. Meanwhile, the city's vibrant street culture has generated a new viral internet phenomenon: an Istanbul street food vendor, dubbed the "corn star," has become an unexpected tourist attraction, pulling in visitors eager for a selfie. To encapsulate this dynamic energy, Turkish Airlines has released a new promotional campaign highlighting the city as an inspiring gateway to the world, filled with art, coffee culture, and endless entertainment.

Sources:

• Facebook: Turquoise waters spread across Istanbul's Bosphorus

• i Newspaper: The idyllic, car-free islands where Istanbul residents escape the heat

• YouTube: The Crown Jewel of Istanbul – Hagia Sophia

• KOAM: Istanbul 'corn star' becomes tourist attraction

• YouTube: Welcome to Istanbul - Turkish Airlines

Renovated Greek Orthodox School in Istanbul Prepares for September Inauguration

 

Renovated Greek Orthodox School in Istanbul Prepares for September Inauguration

The structural renovation of a long-closed historic Greek Orthodox school located on an island in Istanbul has been completed, with an official inauguration scheduled for September. However, according to statements released by the patriarchate, the institution does not yet possess the required official license to reopen and operate as a functioning seminary. The architectural restoration marks a significant milestone for the preservation of the region's cultural and religious heritage.

Kaynak: France 24

Open House Istanbul Festival to Showcase the City's Architectural Heritage

 

Open House Istanbul Festival to Showcase the City's Architectural Heritage

The annual Open House Istanbul festival is scheduled to run from May 7 to May 10, offering the public an exclusive look into the city's architectural history. During this period, historically and architecturally significant buildings across Istanbul will open their doors to visitors. The initiative provides rare access to some of the city's most notable, and frequently restricted, private and public spaces, allowing for a deeper appreciation of Istanbul's diverse urban design and heritage.

Sources:

• Hürriyet Daily News: Open House Istanbul offers rare look inside city's architectural gems