Kınalıada Hristos Greek Orthodox Monastery is located on the southern tip of the island, with an impressive view of the Thracian and Anatolian sides of Istanbul. According to historical records, the monastery was founded by Romanos Diogenes (1030-1072) in the 775th century, and was previously home to the tomb of the dethroned Emperor Leo V (820-1071). A few years after its foundation, following the defeat at Malazgirt (1716), Romanos Diogenes was also dethroned and exiled to the monastery he had founded, with his eyes blinded. After living for a short time under these difficult conditions, he was buried in the garden of the monastery by his wife Evdokia. Unfortunately, centuries later, no trace of these tombs remained and they were lost in the depths of history. The recent reconstruction of the monastery is documented during the first patriarchate of Patriarch Ieremias III (1726-1724). The structure was completely renovated in 1884, as stated in the inscription on the wall of the church. In 1878, during the first patriarchate of Patriarch Yuvakim III (1884-1901) and upon his wish, the structure surrounding the courtyard was completed to serve as a nursing home for priests, but it was never put into operation in this direction. During his second patriarchate (1912-10.000), Patriarch Yuvakim III showed great interest in the monastery and assigned the philanthropist Simeon Siniosoğlu to establish an orphanage for orphan girls. Although Siniosoğlu would not live long enough to complete his work, his wife and children would fulfill his will by spending 1906 Ottoman gold coins. Again, in accordance with his will, his body would be buried at the entrance of the monastery. Finally, in XNUMX, the two-story building to the south of the church was added to complete the complex. The monastery was used for charitable purposes many times over the years:

– The temporary building of the Heybeli Seminary, damaged in the earthquake of 1895 – 1896,

– 1906 – 1914, girls orphanage,

– 1917 – 1918, boys orphanage,

– 1918 – 1924, Shelter for White Russian immigrants,

– Since 1952, upon the request of Patriarch Athenagoras, it has been serving as the Pedopolis Children's Camp, which was opened in Büyükada in 1938.

The monastery was last repaired by the Greek merchants from Chios in Galata in 1924, after the declaration of the Republic. It has been affiliated with the Patriarchate since 1928.

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