The Secret Beneath Koço: Aya Ekaterini Holy Spring in Kadıköy Moda

Hidden beneath one of Istanbul's oldest restaurants lies a remarkable piece of the city's multicultural heritage. The Aya Ekaterini Ayazma (Holy Spring), an underground Orthodox shrine dedicated to Saint Catherine of Alexandria, has been sheltered under Koço Restaurant in Kadıköy Moda since its discovery in 1924.

Discovery and History

The holy spring was discovered in 1924 by Greek fishermen who noticed water seeping from the ground near the Moda coastline. Upon excavation, they uncovered an underground chamber with a natural spring, which they dedicated to Saint Catherine (Aya Ekaterini in Greek). When Konstantinos Koço Korontos established his restaurant above in 1928, he preserved the sacred space, creating a unique coexistence of a meyhane and a place of worship that continues to this day.

The Only Saint Catherine Shrine in Turkey

What makes this ayazma extraordinary is its uniqueness: it is the only known place of worship dedicated to Saint Catherine in all of Turkey. The underground chapel features marble walls, a marble fountain, and an icon of Saint Catherine. Every Monday, Orthodox priests conduct prayers at the shrine.

Visiting the Holy Spring

The Aya Ekaterini Holy Spring is open to visitors of all faiths. After your meal at Koço, simply ask the staff to guide you downstairs to the ayazma. Visitors can light a candle and make a wish. According to tradition, one should wish for money, business, or education at this shrine, but not for love — as Saint Catherine was martyred at the age of 18 before experiencing love.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an ayazma?

An ayazma is an Orthodox holy spring, a sacred water source often found in churches or underground chambers. Istanbul has several historic ayazmas, but Aya Ekaterini beneath Koço Restaurant is the only one dedicated to Saint Catherine.

Is the holy spring open to non-Orthodox visitors?

Yes, the Aya Ekaterini Holy Spring welcomes visitors of all faiths. Muslims, Christians, and people of other beliefs visit to light candles and make wishes. There is no entry fee.

How do I find Koço Restaurant?

Koço Restaurant is at Moda Caddesi No:171, Kadıköy, Istanbul, directly across from the Moda Pier. Reservations: 0216 336 07 95.