Phanar Greek Orthodox College

Phanar Greek Orthodox College, also known as the Great School of the Nation, is the oldest and most prestigious Greek Orthodox school in Istanbul, Turkey, established in 1454. Located near the Church of St. George, the school is housed in a striking building designed by architect Konstantinos Dimadis, completed in 1883. Often referred to as 'the 5th largest castle in Europe' due to its castle-like architecture, the school features a large dome that serves as an observatory. It has a rich history of educating prominent figures in the Ottoman Empire and continues to offer a curriculum that combines Turkish and Greek subjects. However, it faces challenges as it must vacate its premises by 2025 due to structural safety concerns.