Church of St. Mary of the Mongols

After seeing the reviews and the pictures I can see some people mistakes the School ( a very impressive building that you cant visit) with the Church, a modest building behind walls next to the School. You cannot visit the school but you can visit the church. The entry door is normally closed (dont be afraid to ring the bell) because there are not many people praying there these days and recent political tensions with Greece (I could see some graffiti outside the church). There is a guardian who will show you. He speaks a bit of English but he is not a tour guide. They dont charge entry fee so I gave him a tip as thanks but yes he may look a bit impatient as he cant leave you alone in the Church. Overall worthy if you are in the area and easy to find with googlemaps. Inside you can see the entry of a tunnel that apparently leads to Hagia Sofia.

The only Byzantine era church that was never converted into a mosque in Istanbul. Very special place if you are able to get inside. Gorgeous church.

Church of St. Mary of the Mongols, also called Bloody Church is located in Balat, Fatih. The church is very close to Greek Orthodox College. Normally you do not go in the church without ringing the bell and almost begging to the security person however we managed to get in after insisting. The church is called Bloody Church also, a reference to Ottoman soultan Fatih, conquering Istanbul in 1453. However this is the only church from that time that is given to orthdoxo community by his firman, a declaration and that declaration is still on the walls of the church, signed by him. It is a small church with many restorations after damages however a-must-see landmark for the cultural heritage.

Looks good, but unfortunately there are very high walls around and you can't see all details closer

Super place quite and lovely