Tabriz St. Mary Church
Nestled amidst the historical heart of Tabriz, the Tabriz St. Mary Church, dating back to the 12th century during the Ilkhanate era, stands as one of the city’s most ancient and significant religious landmarks. As the largest active Armenian Apostolic church in Tabriz, it continues to serve as a spiritual anchor for the faithful. The church’s accompanying museum houses a remarkable collection that offers a glimpse into Armenia’s rich cultural tapestry.
History
With roots tracing back to the 12th century, Tabriz St. Mary Church holds a storied past. Once the seat of the regional archbishop, this venerable sanctuary bore witness to the ebb and flow of history. Ravaged during the Mongol invasion and later damaged by a devastating earthquake in 1780, Tabriz St. Mary Church underwent reconstruction between 1782 and 1785 during the Safavid era to reclaim its sacred stature.
Description
Nestled within a historic neighborhood in the city’s heart, Tabriz St. Mary Church is a colossal architectural marvel. It serves as a prominent hub for Armenian religious ceremonies, its verdant courtyard lending serenity to its surroundings. The church bears the distinct hallmarks of Armenian architectural style, subtly interwoven with traces of Persian influence. With a cruciform design, its dome gracefully rests upon four robust stone pillars. At the entrance, twin belfries rise, each supported by four square columns. Inside, the church reveals four arches adorned with biblical paintings, each a canvas masterpiece artfully installed on the walls. Elements of limestone, stone walls, and pillars, in contrast with a brick dome, create a harmonious architectural blend.
Within the confines of Tabriz St. Mary Church lies a precious museum, a veritable trove of Armenian heritage. The museum’s artifacts and objects eloquently speak to Armenia’s rich culture and history. Its diverse collection includes books penned in Armenian, Persian, and Arabic, ancient coins, statues, jewelry, crowns, and more, all contributing to a tapestry of heritage that transcends time and borders.
In the heart of Tabriz, where history and devotion converge, Tabriz St. Mary Church stands tall as a living testament to faith, resilience, and the enduring spirit of the Armenian community.
Visiting hours
Tabriz St. Mary Church remains an active place of worship, its doors open to the Christian faithful, fostering a sense of community and spirituality. While open to all, visitors from different religious backgrounds may be required to secure permission for entry, a testament to the church’s continued cultural and historical significance.
