Erdogan revives talks on reopening historic Orthodox seminary in Turkey

Sunday 21 June 2026 - 13:00

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has instructed government officials to restart discussions on reopening the historic Halki Seminary, a renowned Orthodox Christian theological institution located near Istanbul. The move comes amid renewed international attention to religious freedom issues and follows discussions with U.S. President Donald Trump, who is expected to visit Turkey next month for a NATO summit.

Founded in 1844 on Heybeliada Island in the Sea of Marmara, the Halki Seminary served for more than a century as the principal educational center of the Ecumenical Patriarchate of Constantinople, one of the most influential institutions in Eastern Orthodox Christianity. The seminary was closed in 1971 following changes in Turkish higher education regulations and has remained inactive ever since.

For decades, the reopening of the seminary has been a subject of discussion between Turkey and several international partners, including Greece, the United States, and the European Union. Supporters argue that reopening the institution would represent an important step toward strengthening religious freedoms and promoting interfaith dialogue in the country.

Recent developments suggest that the issue is once again gaining momentum. According to church representatives, President Erdogan has directed Turkey’s higher education authorities to continue consultations with officials from the Ecumenical Patriarchate regarding the future of the seminary. Religious leaders have welcomed the decision, describing it as a positive signal after many years without significant progress.

The Ecumenical Patriarchate, headquartered in Istanbul, views the seminary as essential for educating future Orthodox clergy and preserving theological traditions. The institution previously trained numerous religious leaders, including Patriarch Bartholomew, the current spiritual leader of millions of Orthodox Christians worldwide.

Although no official timeline has been announced for the reopening, the renewed dialogue has generated cautious optimism among religious communities and international observers. Analysts note that progress on the issue could contribute to improving Turkey’s image regarding minority rights and religious tolerance while strengthening diplomatic relations with Western allies.

As preparations continue for upcoming international meetings, including the NATO summit, the future of the Halki Seminary remains a closely watched topic, symbolizing the broader intersection of religion, diplomacy, and domestic policy in modern Turkey.