“St.Irene Church” or Hagia Eirene
(Constantinople) Istanbul, Turkey  306-337 AD, burnt in 532 and rebuilt in 548. Restored again 741-775.

Now known as the Topaki Palace after being the residence of the Ottoman Sultans (1465-1856). Contains some of the most holy Muslim relics. Earliest known church built in Constantinople.

Has a cross dome plan and is the second largest to Hagia Sophia. It has 3 aisles, galleries on 3 sides that open to central space. The dome measures 15m in diameter.

Ordered by Roman Emperor Constantine I; rebuilt by Emperor Justinian I; Emperor Constantine V ordered the 8th century restorations, including mosaics and frescoes. Topkapi Palace, Hagia Irene / Hagia Eirene / Church of Holy Peace / "St. Irene" Church. Church built circa 306-337 AD; Burned down during the Nike revolt in 532 AD; rebuilt in 548 AD; damaged by an earthquake in the 8th century; restored circa 741-775 AD; The mosaics and frescoes inside date to these restorations; The church was enlarged during the 11th-12th centuries; currently a Museum, Image: April, 2010. Artstor, library.artstor.org/asset/ASITESPHOTOIG_10313841836