Kariye (Chora) Museum

The Kariye Museum, also known as the Church of the Holy Savior in Chora, shows the most beautiful mosaics and frescoes of the Byzantine era, illustrating scenes from the life of Christ and the Virgin Mary.  Although this former church lacks in size compared to the Hagia Sophia, for example, it more than makes up for it with it’s stunning beauty of the interior artwork.  I regret not hiring a guide for this museum since every single piece required extensive knowledge of the bible (in my opinion).  However, enjoying the sheer beauty and quality of the exquisite workmanship, again, more than made up for my regret.  Because the museum was much smaller, you can actually see the detailed handwork of the mosaics, for example, with much better clarity.  The presence of God was undeniable yet once again.