The Europa concerts are the Berliner Philharmoniker′s way of remembering the anniversary of their founding.Performing in a different European city each year, the orchestra wishes to make its contribution to European unity.2001 the concert was performed at the historic St. Irene Church in Istanbul under the direction of Mariss Jansons. St.Irene (Hagia Eirene) is the oldest church in Istanbul originating from the 4th Century. Today it is mainly used forfestivals and concerts.