What is the special exhibition at St. Anthony of Padua Church (İstiklal Street) in Istanbul in July 2026?
Based on 1 discussion with 3 participants · Last activity: 2 days ago
TL;DR
Until the end of July 2026, the underground crypt of St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church (İstiklal Street) is open to the public for only the second time in its 114-year history, hosting a free exhibition on 800 years of Franciscan presence in Istanbul. Open daily except Sunday, 16:00–19:00.
What the community said
The exhibition 'From Kalenderhane to St. Anthony Basilica' is open on the lower floor of St. Anthony of Padua Church on Istiklal Street until the end of July. Hours are 16:00–19:00, closed on Sundays.
2 days ago St. Anthony of Padua Church, Istiklal Street, 16:00–19:00 except Sun
The exhibition traces the story from 1204–1261, when Franciscan monks lived in the Byzantine church of Kalenderhane (now Kalenderhane Mosque) during the Latin occupation of Constantinople, up to today's St. Anthony Basilica on Istiklal Street.
2 days ago Kalenderhane Mosque
The church's underground crypt was opened to the general public for the first time ever, for an exhibition marking the 800th anniversary of St. Francis of Assisi's death and 8 centuries of Franciscan presence in Istanbul. Entry is free, but expect long queues due to the rarity of the event.
2 days ago Free entry, expect queues