The Church of St. Anthony of Padua, colloquially referred to as Sent Antuan Kilisesi, is the largest Catholic church in Istanbul and a significant symbol of the city’s diverse cultural past. Located on the vibrant İstiklal Avenue in the Beyoğlu area, it exemplifies the impact of the Italian community in Istanbul throughout the late 19th and early 20th centuries. This imposing basilica remains a central site of prayer for both residents and international visitors.

A Historic Landmark on İstiklal Avenue

The Church of St. Anthony of Padua is centrally located in Istanbul’s Beyoğlu area on the renowned İstiklal Avenue. This vibrant boulevard, characterized by its fusion of modernity and history, hosts numerous cultural landmarks, rendering it an appropriate setting for the magnificent church. St. Anthony’s is situated beside several notable churches, including St. Mary Draperis and SS. Peter and Paul, which have functioned as spiritual hubs for Istanbul’s Levantine community. Collectively, these churches influenced the religious framework of the region, which has always accommodated a diverse population.

The Church of St. Anthony of Padua is currently overseen by Italian priests and conducts many Masses in different languages. Services comprise English Mass on Saturdays at 19:00, Italian Mass on Sundays at 11:30, and Turkish Mass on Sundays at 19:00, accommodating the varied congregation that persists in worshiping here. The church provides services in Polish, serving as a central hub for diverse expatriate populations.

The Architectural Marvel: A Venetian Neo-Gothic Masterpiece

The history of the Church of St. Anthony of Padua is closely linked to the Italian community in Istanbul. The initial edifice, erected in 1725 by this community, was subsequently dismantled to facilitate the construction of the present building, which was completed between 1906 and 1912. Conceived by Levantine architect Giulio Mongeri, the church exhibits a remarkable Venetian Neo-Gothic style, characterized by its elaborate façade and soaring spires, which produce a significant visual effect within the urban environment.

Mongeri, a distinguished architect recognized for his contributions to numerous significant structures in Istanbul and elsewhere, is also acknowledged for designing the Maçka Palas in Nişantaşı and the Karaköy Palas in the Galata district. His work on the Church of St. Anthony of Padua exemplifies a meticulous integration of Gothic features and Venetian influences, mirroring the cultural legacy of the community it serves. The neighboring residential complex, the St. Antoine Apartmanları, was also built around this time, augmenting the architectural importance of the region.

A Vatican Connection: Pope John XXIII and the Church’s Legacy

The Church of St. Anthony of Padua occupies a significant position in Vatican history, especially due to its connection with Pope John XXIII. Prior to his elevation to the papacy, John XXIII had the role of the Vatican’s envoy to Turkey for a duration of ten years. During this period, he regularly delivered sermons in the church, and his association with Istanbul and its inhabitants became legendary. Pope John XXIII, recognized as the “Turkish Pope,” is nostalgically commemorated for his profound admiration for Turkey and her capital. His proficiency in Turkish and his regular declarations of affection for the city cemented his legacy throughout the local population.

A statue of Pope John XXIII now resides in the church’s courtyard, commemorating his connection to Istanbul and its Catholic community. His influence persists, as the church is a spiritual hub for numerous individuals who trace their religious heritage to this pivotal historical era.

A Controversial Legal Battle: The Fate of the Church

In recent years, the Church of St. Anthony of Padua has been embroiled in a legal controversy that has garnered both local and worldwide interest. Since 2016, the church has been involved in a lengthy legal dispute regarding ownership and the prospective sale of the land. The incident occurred when an individual named Sebahattin Gök purportedly acquired a power of attorney from the landowners and endeavored to sell the church. Nevertheless, legal representatives of the Vatican intervened to obstruct the sale, citing apprehensions regarding the church’s legitimate ownership.

This protracted legal dispute has obscured the church’s future, prompting inquiries on the safeguarding of religious history in Istanbul and the possible forfeiture of a vital cultural landmark. Notwithstanding these problems, the church persists as a site of worship and a revered emblem of the lasting presence of Catholicism in the city.

Other Roman Catholic Churches in Istanbul: A Rich Religious Landscape

The Church of St. Anthony of Padua is the most notable Catholic church in Istanbul, yet it is not the sole one. The city hosts numerous Roman Catholic churches, each possessing a distinct history and architectural design. Prominent instances comprise the Cathedral of the Holy Spirit in Harbiye, constructed in 1846, and St. Louis of the French, a church established in 1581. Moreover, the Church of the Assumption in Moda and St. Stephen in Yeşilköy enhance the city’s unique religious tapestry.

Visitors seeking to explore these churches can conveniently reach St. Anthony of Padua using public transportation. The Şişhane station on the M2 metro line is the closest, however Taksim station is also accessible by foot. Visitors can walk along İstiklal Avenue from either station, where the church’s impressive facade is located just prior to Galatasaray.