Erdogan revives talks on reopening Halki Orthodox seminary

Founded in 1844, the theological school served as the primary training ground for Eastern Orthodox clergy, including the current patriarch, Bartholomew. The Turkish government closed the institution in 1971, citing a constitutional mandate that forced private higher education entities to affiliate with state universities—a condition the Patriarchate consistently rejected. Pressure to restore the seminary has persisted for years, with Greece, the European Union, and Washington pushing for its return to operation on Heybeliada island.

Metropolitan Emmanuel of Chalcedon confirmed that discussions with the Turkish higher education authority are officially back on the table. While a concrete timeline remains elusive, the shift signals a departure from the long-standing stalemate. Both parties must now navigate the logistical hurdles of building renovations and define a legal framework that satisfies state requirements while preserving the school’s ecclesiastical autonomy.