A controversial incident took place inside the historic Greek Orthodox Church of Agios Vukolos in Izmir (formerly Smyrna), Turkey, where the municipality allowed an electronic music party to be held inside the Saint Voukolos Orthodox Church, a move that has garnered strong reactions from the community. The event, which occurred very recently, has sparked criticism and controversy due to the historical significance of the church and its ownership by the municipality.

Saint Voukolos Orthodox Church holds great historical value, and in the past, it has been used for liturgies by the Smyrna Metropolis. Additionally, the church has hosted several significant exhibitions. However, the decision to transform the sacred space into an entertainment venue for an electronic music party has raised concerns and objections from various quarters.

The incident has also become politically charged, with criticism coming from Turkish pro-government media due to the opposition party affiliation of the Izmir municipality. This adds another layer to the controversy surrounding the event, highlighting the polarization and sensitivities involved.

The decision to allow an electronic music party inside the church, particularly one with historical and religious importance, has also prompted a firm response from the Greek Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The Ministry statement read: “We unequivocally condemn the act of holding an electronic music party inside the historic Greek Orthodox Church of Saint Voukolos in Izmir, which is presently used as a venue for hosting cultural events by the Turkish Authorities.”

“Organising parties constitutes an insult and desecration of a historical monument that used to be a place of worship in the past.” the statement continued.

“We call on the Turkish government to take all the necessary action so that the appropriate respect for the cultural, historical, and religious heritage of all religions is ensured on its territory,” the Ministry added.