Kemerli Church is located in the town of Tirilye (Zeytinbağı), part of the Mudanya district in Bursa Province, Türkiye. The structure is also known as the Panagia Pantobasilissa Church. Due to its architectural features, frescoes, and historical documentation, it is considered a significant monument within the Orthodox Christian world.

^{Kemerli Church (T.C. Mudanya Kaymakamlığı)}

Dating and Dedication

Based on its masonry technique and architectural characteristics, Kemerli Church is estimated to have been constructed in the late 13th century. A manuscript prepared by traveler Dr. John Covel in 1676 refers to the church as being dedicated to Panagia Pantobasilissa (Virgin Mary). This dedication underscores the sacred function and religious context of the building.

Architectural Features

The church is built in a Greek cross plan aligned along an east–west axis. It features a prominent dome supported by four columns, which are traditionally believed to have been brought from Alexandria. The capitals of these columns are ornamented. The external buttresses that support the structure include arches, which gave the church its name “Kemerli” (Arched) Church. Locally, it is also referred to as the “Little Hagia Sophia.” The walls and dome of the church remain structurally intact today.

Frescoes and Interior

Kemerli Church is considered to be the first church with painted interior walls. The first layer of frescoes dates to the early 14th century, while the second layer is attributed to the 18th century (1723). The interior decorations include a soldier figure holding a sword, another figure with a globe and spear, the winged Archangel Michael, and various scenes from the life of the Virgin Mary. Compared to its relatively plain exterior, the church’s interior is significantly more elaborate in terms of decoration and iconography.

Usage and Preservation

The church sustained severe damage during the earthquake of 1855, which resulted in the collapse of its bell tower and dome. Following the population exchange between Greece and Türkiye, the building passed into private ownership and was used as a storage facility. Having remained abandoned for many years, it was eventually purchased by Elpidophoros Lambriniadis, who was appointed by the Istanbul-based Ecumenical Patriarchate as the Metropolitan of Bursa. It has been reported that the structure will be restored and used again as a church.