Sent Antuan Kilisesi

"Standing tall on the bustling İstiklal Caddesi in Beyoğlu district, Sent Antuan Kilisesi (Church of St. Anthony of Padua) is not only the largest Catholic church in Istanbul, but also one of the three Levantine parishes in the area. Its striking design reflects a Neo-Gothic architectural style. Construction began in 1906 by Italian architect Giulio Mongeri and was completed for worship in 1912. The red-bricked exterior features a statue of Pope John XXIII near the entrance, a nod to his 10-year tenure in Istanbul and fondness for the city. Stepping inside, visitors are greeted by high vaulted ceilings, beautiful mosaic artwork, and a gilded wooden statue of St. Anthony of Padua, crafted by Italian sculptor Luigi Bresciani. "