The Stavrodromi Community of Constantinople at the General Assembly of ASCE in Dresden

The Şişli Cemetery of the Stavrodromi Community, in Constantinople, has been officially recognised by ASCE (Association of Significant Cemeteries in Europe) as one of the most important cemeteries in Europe, and was formally incorporated into the network in October 2018.

As a member of ASCE, Şişli Cemetery is promoted internationally as a significant part of global cultural heritage. This recognition contributes to the promotion of the Greek Orthodox cultural identity within the European and global community, through ASCE’s communication networks.

The renowned Stavrodromi Community was represented at the ASCE General Assembly, held in Dresden (Germany) from 4–6 September, by Father Gedeon, who presented the Cemetery of the Holy Transfiguration in Şişli as a guardian and promoter of Stavrodromi Community within the international network of historic cemeteries.

It is worth noting that, to date, only two cemeteries in Turkey have been included in the ASCE network: the Şişli Cemetery and now the Balıklı Cemetery.

Finally, during the General Assembly, a proposal was made for the 2027 ASCE General Assembly to be held in Constantinople, an event that would be a great honour and an important opportunity to further highlight the cultural presence of the Greek Orthodox Community of the City of Constantinople.