Built in the 4th century Hagia Irene Church was made to be rebuilt in 548 by the Eastern Roman Emperor Justinianus after a fire in 532. Three-naved basilica planned building includes three sections: the main area (naos), nartex (entrance) and atrium (courtyard).
Because the place was not converted into a mosque after Istanbul was conquered, there are not many changes made on the interior and exterior of the place. And because it was used as a warehouse for weapons and war booty it was called “Cebehane”. During the time of Ahmed the 3rd an entrance portico was built and there are two repairing inscriptions on it. The inscription dated 1726 shows that the building was renovated as Darü’l-Esliha and the weapons stored here were organized like a weapon museum. The second inscription is dated 1744 and it reveals that the building was turned into a Cebehane after renovations during the reign of Mahmud the 1st. In the 19th century, the building was used as a “Military Warehouse” and was turned into a museum with the initiatives of Fethi Ahmed Pasha. The museum included two sections Mecma-i Esliha-i Atika and Mecma-i Âsâr-ı Atika (Old Weapons and Old Works Museum). The building which was later turned into a warehouse again was used as a military museum between 1908-1940.
Cultural activities and exhibitions are organized in the church today. It houses many art activities, Istanbul Festival being in the first place, because of its perfect acoustics. Hagine Irene is closed to visitors except such concerts and cultural activities. It is only possible to see the place with a special permission from Hagia Sophia Museum Directorate.