Saint Helena Church in Konya

Located in the historical Sille district of Konya, the Saint Helena Church is considered one of the oldest churches in the world.

According to some researchers, it was built in the year 327 by Helena, the mother of Roman Emperor Constantine. Helena is known as a devout Christian and is often called “the mother of Christians.”

It is believed that during her pilgrimage to Jerusalem, Helena visited Sille and supported the construction of a church for local believers. This happened even before Christianity was officially accepted by the Roman Empire. That’s why some historians claim that the Saint Helena Church in Konya, not the Saint Pierre Church in Antakya, could be the world’s first actual church building. They argue that Saint Pierre was a hidden worship place known as a “kenise,” not a proper church.

The Saint Helena Church has a simple stone structure and holds deep religious and historical value. It reflects the early spread of Christianity in Anatolia and remains a peaceful symbol of faith and history.

Today, the church continues to attract visitors who want to explore Konya’s rich past and see one of the earliest Christian places of worship.