Situated on Tasbasi neighborhood, at the center of Ordu, Taşbaşı Cultural Center was built by Rum (Greeks of Turkish Nationality) in 1853.This wonderful structure welcomes numerous tourists from various countries because it draws attention with its historical side. Therefore, today it takes a place in the urban archeological site (protected area).
HISTORY Today from past, the amazing building has been used many different aims: Firstly, it was constructed as a church by Rum community in order to freely worship in 1853 before they left the city as a result of population exchange in 1924. Also they built Rum School to educate their children. According to the Christianity, education or religious education is very important for them hence; when the community established a church, they absolutely added a school next to the monastery. But at the moment, only church and the entrance door of this special school is able to stand. That church reflects the architectural, cultural and artistic, etc. features and details of the period; it is said that once upon a time, the church includes the relics belonging to or incident to the Orthodoxy.
Secondly, in between 1937 and 1977 years, this church was used as a prison or jail (Mapushane in colloquial speech) by Ministry of Culture. There were found two rooms for the adults, one room for the children and a ward in a separate place for women within this prison.
Finally, this famous structure was renovated, turned into a Cultural Centre and its environmental planning was made by Ministry of Culture in 1983.It put into the service in 10 April, 2000. Today Tasbasi Cultural Center surrounded by the culture and art houses, gift shops, tea garden and cafes is open to the public. Additionally, countless activities like symposium, conference, paneling, exhibition, performing, theatre and museology or museum studies are organized here.
ARCHITECTURE Constructed in the east - west direction in a rectangular style, this amazing building was made of the face stone except for the dome. There is located main and two little abscissas (a mihrab showing the east) in the east side. The basic field of the church is separated three naves together with three columns with two rowed. This enchanting church is basilica style and its roof is carried with the arches which are supported by pillars. The walls of the church are covered with the white plaster.
Except for that, the windows creates very magical or mystic atmosphere for this wonderful building which leave those visitors the breathless.
Content Author : Ebrar OKÇU Page Editor : Mustafa Gökhan BULUT Published : 22 January 2015
