The Church of St. George (Aya Yorgi Church) stands as a light of spirituality, history, and folklore on the tallest hill of Büyükada, Istanbul’s largest Princes’ Island. According to patriarchal documents, it began in 1751 with the construction of a tiny, two-story structure. This simple structure included a chapel, a small church, and a private area for silent reflection. However, in 1905, a larger edifice was commissioned, constructed of strong face stone, and consecrated for worship four years later, in 1909. Today, the old tile-covered chapel and the newer hilltop sanctuary coexist, representing centuries of faith and dedication.

The church takes its name from Saint George (Aya Yorgi in Greek), one of Christianity’s most beloved saints. George, a Roman soldier born in Cappadocia in the third century, became immortalised in Christian lore as a defender of the faith. According to folklore, a town was afflicted by a vicious dragon, to whom the residents first sacrificed sheep. When this failed to satisfy the beast, they turned to human offerings chosen by lottery. Fate eventually chose the king’s daughter, and despite the monarch’s entreaties and enormous rewards, no one offered to take her place. As she faced certain death, Saint George emerged, striking the dragon with his lance and subduing it with a girdle. He led the creature back to the town and offered to slay it if the residents converted to Christianity. Over 15,000 people, including the monarch, accepted the faith, and Saint George defeated the beast, cementing his place in Christian history.

Pilgrims and visitors alike come to Aya Yorgi Church with hope, seeking divine intercession and favors. A long-standing tradition requires individuals beginning on this pilgrimage to remove their shoes at the base of the hill, clutch a bell, and maintain complete silence throughout the climb. Many people believe that traveling along the path with a spool of thread and tying it to bushes along the way will make their dreams come true. This grueling journey, known as the “path of torment,” requires faith, endurance, and steadfast dedication.

This ceremony is based on a Byzantine-era fable. During the Greek siege, priests sought to protect the church’s priceless relics and icons by burying them deep underground. Centuries later, a shepherd on the island dreamed of Aya Yorgi, who told him to climb the hill and listen for the sound of bells. Following repeated visions, the shepherd complied by traveling barefoot and in quiet. When he arrived at the place, he heard ethereal chimes, delved into the soil, and discovered the hidden jewels, undamaged by time. Today, it is claimed that people who complete this hallowed trek barefoot and wordless become half-pilgrims, with a mystical connection to Saint George himself.

The church’s significance extends beyond Christianity, attracting people from all religions and nations. The most dynamic meetings take place on April 23rd and September 24th, when thousands of visitors scale the hill, united by a similar sense of reverence and wonder. These events generate a sense of solidarity, with believers and non-believers alike finding refuge in the tranquility of the surroundings. Even for individuals who have no religious affiliation, the experience of walking this sacred road leaves an unforgettable mark.

After the strenuous 15-minute climb, visitors arrive at the majestic doors of Aya Yorgi Church, where a sign softly urges them to remain silent and dress modestly. Though not large in size, the church has an outstanding collection of holy objects. Exquisite icons, intricate themes, and evocative paintings cover its interiors, each telling a story of faith and fortitude. The most compelling of these is an icon of Saint George defeating the monster creature that emerges from the sea, his spear prepared for the fatal blow. Another venerated artifact is the saint’s personal icon, in front of which visitors place flowers and tokens of thanks as a concrete indication of their prayers answered.

When you step outside the church, the panoramic views of the Marmara Sea enchant you. The calm beauty of the island, along with the mild sea wind, offers a period of introspection and relief. The Yücetepe Kır Gazinosu, located next to the church, provides a relaxing atmosphere. This beautiful café, run by a local Turkish family, serves great food, allowing tourists to enjoy traditional cuisine while taking in one of Istanbul’s most spectacular views.

To begin this spiritual journey, one must first visit Büyükada. Several ferry services depart from several sites in Istanbul, such as Beşiktaş, Bostancı, Sirkeci, Kartal, Büyükçekmece, Bakırköy, Eminönü, Kadıköy, Kabataş, Yalova, Avcılar, Karaköy, and Yeşilköy. Visitors must navigate the island’s tortuous trails, which are best explored by bicycle, as motorized vehicles are not permitted. The ascent to the summit is hard, but residents are always happy to point visitors in the proper direction.