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The Greek Orphanage In Büyükada will Become a Hotel
The Fener Greek Patriarchate decided to convert the historical Greek Orphanage in Büyükada into a hotel. June 12, 2025
During the meeting held on June 3rd by the Holy Synod Council, the decision-making body of the Fener Greek Patriarchate, it was decided that the historical Greek Orphanage, one of the largest wooden structures in Europe, will be restored in accordance with ecological standards and used as a hotel.
In a statement made after the meeting, it was stated that "In the 1960s, shortly after its closure, the many attempts and countless efforts to find financing for the restoration of the wooden orphanage complex, which had fallen victim to time and suffered serious damage, unfortunately remained unsuccessful. Therefore, it was decided to take the necessary initiatives, in order to fulfill touristic activities, in compliance with ecological building standards, paying attention to the environment and in harmony with Büyükada’s architectural and social character."
The orphanage had originally been built in 1898 as a hotel; however, since the Ottoman administration did not grant the necessary license, it was donated to the Patriarchate in 1903 and used as an orphanage. The building, closed in 1964, had suffered some serious damage over the years, and all restoration attempts had failed.
A committee of experts will be formed for the restoration process, and work will begin in the coming days.
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