Aya Yorgi Greek Orthodox Monastery (Yücetepe)

Aya Yorgi Greek Orthodox Monastery (Yücetepe): A Spiritual Journey on Büyükada’s Highest Peak

📍 Location: Yücetepe Hill, Büyükada – Istanbul
🕍 Established: 963 AD (During the reign of Byzantine Emperor Nikephoros Phokas)
🕰 Visiting Hours: Open every day from 08:00 to 16:30
🎟 Entrance: Free
✝️ Religious Affiliation: Greek Orthodox
🚶‍♀️ Access: Reachable on foot or by bicycle from the Büyükada ferry pier

A Sacred Site at the Top of the Island

Located on the highest point of Büyükada, the largest and arguably the most beautiful of Istanbul’s Princes’ Islands, Aya Yorgi Monastery (Agios Georgios) offers visitors a serene and spiritual escape with breathtaking views of the Marmara Sea.

The monastery is dedicated to Saint George (Georgios), a Roman officer from Cappadocia who was martyred in the 3rd century AD for his Christian faith. His tomb lies in present-day Palestine, and he is venerated across the Eastern Orthodox world.

A Thousand-Year Legacy and a Miraculous Icon

According to tradition, the monastery was built in 963 AD during the Byzantine era. The miraculous icon inside the church was a gift from the women’s monastery of Empress Irene also located on Büyükada.

An imperial edict by Emperor Manuel Komnenos from 1158 mentions this site by the name "Kodono", and 19th-century historian Manuel Gedeon confirmed that it referred to the Aya Yorgi Kudonas (of the Bells) Monastery.

The Climb: A Modern-Day Pilgrimage

Visiting Aya Yorgi is considered a spiritual journey by many. From the Büyükada ferry pier, visitors must walk about 40 minutes uphill to reach the monastery. You can also bike part of the way, but must leave your bicycle at the base of the final steep section.

Every year on April 23 and September 24, thousands of pilgrims from both Christian and Muslim communities climb the hill to make wishes and offer prayers — continuing a unique interfaith tradition.

How to Get to Büyükada

🚢 Ferry & Sea Bus Options:

Kabataş – Büyükada (Direct): ~60 minutesBostancı – Büyükada (Direct): ~30 minutesKadıköy – Büyükada (via all islands): 90–105 minutesSea Bus: From Kabataş (30 min), from Bostancı (10 min)🛥 Sea Taxi: Available from 23 piers, including Kabataş, Bostancı, Eminönü, Avcılar, and Kartal. Ideal for groups seeking a fast and scenic ride.

📲 Use the Advisormapp app for navigation, historical insights, and to explore other nearby landmarks on the island.

🌄 Whether you're seeking divine inspiration or simply want to enjoy one of the best panoramic views in Istanbul, Aya Yorgi Monastery promises a deeply rewarding experience.