Introduction
Istanbul is one of the most populated cities in the world, housing about support 15 million people. It is a major cultural, religious and economic centre in the country of Turkey. It has long been considered an important center of Christianity in the region. With the fall of the Ottoman Empire in the early 20th century, Istanbul and the surrounding provinces was the soil in which the newly-formed Republic of Turkey was built. This creates an interesting political and religious climate, as people have been constantly debating the region’s religion, especially in terms of what percentage of its population is Christian.
Christian population of Istanbul
According to the most recently available statistics from the Turkish Statistical Institute, the Christian population in Istanbul amounts to around 0.32 percent of the city’s total population. This is a considerable decrease from the previous numbers of the Christian population around 1933, which was as high as three times that percentage. Whilst the numbers may be discussed, they nonetheless reflect a decrease in the Christian population in Istanbul and the region.
Despite the decrease in the Christian population, it is important to note that the religion is still present in the region. There are a number of churches that are still actively functioning and attended by worshipers, including the Church of the Virgin Mary in Balat and the Church of St. Anthony of Padua in Taksim.
Politicizing of religion
The decrease in the Christian population of Istanbul has been attributed to a number of factors, including the politicizing of religion. Following the fall of the Ottoman Empire, religion became increasingly politicized in the country, and given the Islamic nature of the newly-formed Republic of Turkey, Christians were systemically discouraged from practicing their faith, or from living in certain areas.
The political and religious climate of the country thus shifted and Christians were discouraged or even forbidden from holding certain jobs or settling in certain areas, leading to a decrease in the Christian population of the country.
Demographic shifts
In addition to the politicizing of religion, the decrease in the Christian population of Istanbul can also be attributed to demographic shifts over the years. As migrants from other parts of Turkey, or other countries, have made Istanbul their home, the city’s demographics have shifted and, with it, the religious demographic as well. Whilst one cannot definitively point to the migration of people as a factor in the decrease of the Christian population, it certainly plays a role, as it has shifted the religious makeup of the city.
Modern day presence of Christianity
Despite the decrease of the Christian population of the city, Christianity still plays an important role in the city’s culture. This is especially evident in the city’s architecture, with the plethora of churches that are still prominent landmarks of Istanbul. From the iconic Aya Sofia, to the Church of the Virgin Mary and those profiled earlier, the city remains dotted with distinct Christian symbols.
Outside of architecture, the city’s citizens are also privy to the presence of Christianity. As previously mentioned, churches are still active and religious ceremonies are still performed in them. Similarly, Christian holidays such as Christmas and Easter, which are celebrated by people from all religions, reinforce the presence of the religion within the lives of the people.
Economic impact of Christianity
Aside from the presence of Christianity in the culture of the city, there is also an economic impact. Christianity, like other faiths, can be a source of income for many people. This includes those who work in churches, those who practice preaching, and those who offer spiritual guidance to other believers. Beyond the individual, Christian- owned businesses also generate an income. These include churches, as well as souvenir shops and restaurants.
Christian-themed travel and tour businesses are also on the rise, catering to those individuals and groups looking to learn more about the Christian faith in Istanbul. By highlighting the city’s Christian heritage, these businesses are able to generate an income for themselves, as well as for the city itself.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the percentage of Christians in Istanbul is still relatively low, but their presence and their impact is still very much present. This is especially evident in the city’s culture and economy, with churches still standing and businesses relying on the Christian faith to generate an income.
