Representation of the Istanbul Greek Orthodox Community in Ottoman Architecture

Accepting that the Ottoman order offered to non-Muslims was limited, as are all human-made orders by their very essence, requires accepting that the order would be affected and disrupted when conditions and circumstances challenged it. Anomalies and uncertainties within this order confirm the existence of a community. Every attempt by community members to circumvent the rules strengthens our understanding of the Ottoman social structure. In other words, every irregular action and differentiation confirms the rule set by the Ottomans. There is no competent aspect that allows for the perception of a perfect and rule-abiding community structure in society. What supports the understanding of the community is its difference or opposition within society. Differences and oppositions are important elements that bring vitality and cultural richness to the Ottoman community. On the other hand, the vitality and confusion in daily life, which eliminate the clear appearance of the Ottoman social whole and the community part, lead to the graying of black and white.

This study aimed to understand the existence of the Greek community within the Ottoman state structure by associating architecture, one of the important elements determining its representation, with other fragments of representation and subjects in daily life.