Exploring Hungarian Heritage in Türkiye: Discovering Memories of Budapest in a Faraway Land

Published: December 04 2023

Exploring cultural heritage in different countries can be a fascinating experience. In Türkiye, there are several places that showcase Hungarian memories and connections. From historical buildings to artifacts, these places offer a glimpse into the relationship between Hungary and Türkiye throughout history.

One of the most famous buildings in Istanbul is Hagia Sophia, which was originally built as a church. Surprisingly, Hungarian candlesticks can be found here, collected as spoils of war after Sultan Suleiman's conquest of Buda. These candlesticks are replicas of the ones that can be seen in the Matthias Church in Budapest. Hagia Sophia also contains a mosaic of Empress St. Piroska/Irene, who was the daughter of King Saint Ladislaus of Hungary. This mosaic is the oldest depiction of a Hungarian woman and holds great historical significance.

Adjacent to Hagia Sophia is the brand new Hagia Sophia History Museum. Here, visitors can take a fascinating journey through the history of the temple/mosque over thousands of years. The museum utilizes excellent graphics and projectors to provide an immersive experience. It is a must-visit for those interested in learning more about the history of this iconic site.

Constructed between 1118 and 1136, the Molla Zeyrek Mosque was built at the initiative of the Hungarian empress, St. Irene. It served as a church, monastery, and hospital until 1453. Today, it is the second largest Byzantine building in modern Istanbul after Hagia Sophia. Exploring this mosque offers insights into the architectural heritage shared between Hungary and Türkiye.

Located next to Hagia Sophia, Topkapı Palace was the historical residence of the sultans. In its library, you can find the Istanbul Antiphonal Codex, a codex of hymns for Christian church rites. Interestingly, this codex was made in Hungary in the 14th century. Additionally, the palace houses an arms exhibition where Hungarian swords are displayed. These swords stand out due to their impressive size and are a sight to behold.

Exploring Hungarian heritage in Türkiye provides a unique perspective on the historical connections between the two nations. From Hungarian artifacts in Hagia Sophia to the Molla Zeyrek Mosque and Topkapı Palace, these sites showcase the shared cultural history and offer a glimpse into the past. Immersing oneself in these experiences can be a memorable part of any trip to Türkiye.

What is the relationship between Hungary and Turkey? The relationship between Hungary and Turkey has a long history. The two nations have common ancestors and there are similarities in their languages. Throughout history, some Hungarians regarded Constantinople (now Istanbul) as an enemy, while others saw it as a political ally. In 1923, Türkiye was one of the first countries to sign a treaty of friendship and cooperation with Hungary, and the relationship between the two nations is now in its 100th year.

Are there any Hungarian heritage sites in Istanbul, Turkey? Yes, there are Hungarian heritage sites in Istanbul. One of the most famous buildings in Istanbul, the Hagia Sophia, houses Hungarian candlesticks that were collected as spoils of war after Sultan Suleiman’s entry into Buda. Copies of these candlesticks can be seen in the Matthias Church in Budapest. The Hagia Sophia also features a mosaic of Empress St. Piroska/Irene, who was the daughter of King Saint Ladislaus of Hungary. This mosaic is the oldest depiction of a Hungarian woman.

What is the significance of the Hagia Sophia in terms of Hungarian heritage? The Hagia Sophia in Istanbul has significance in terms of Hungarian heritage because it houses Hungarian candlesticks collected as spoils of war, as well as a mosaic of Empress St. Piroska/Irene, who was a Hungarian princess. The mosaic is the oldest depiction of a Hungarian woman.

Is there a museum dedicated to the history of the Hagia Sophia in Istanbul? Yes, there is a brand new Hagia Sophia History Museum located near the Hagia Sophia in Istanbul. The museum offers a fascinating journey through the history of the temple/mosque over thousands of years using excellent graphics and projectors.

Is there a mosque in Istanbul that was built at the initiative of a Hungarian empress? Yes, there is a mosque in Istanbul called Molla Zeyrek mosque that was built at the initiative of a Hungarian empress between 1118 and 1136. The mosque served as a church, monastery, and hospital until 1453. It is the second largest Byzantine building in modern Istanbul after the Hagia Sophia.

Does the Topkapı Palace in Istanbul have any Hungarian connections? Yes, the Topkapı Palace in Istanbul has Hungarian connections. The palace is the residence of the sultans and it houses the Istanbul Antiphonal Codex, a codex of hymns for Christian church rites that was made in Hungary in the 14th century. The palace also has an arms exhibition where Hungarian swords are on display.

Do Hungarian swords stand out in the arms exhibition at the Topkapı Palace? Yes, Hungarian swords stand out in the arms exhibition at the Topkapı Palace. They are known for their size and are often awe-inspiring to visitors.