What if I told you the Armenian Apostolic Church of Milan began with two brothers fleeing massacres? This church stands as a testament to faith and resilience. It embodies the enduring spirit of the Armenian community in Milan.
The Armenian Apostolic Church of Milan is more than just a building. It represents a haven for Armenians in Italy. The church falls under the jurisdiction of the Holy See of Echmiadzin. This is the center of the Armenian Apostolic Church worldwide.
Let’s step back in time. After World War I Armenians in Milan gathered for religious services. Initially they met in an evangelical church on Via Solferino. In 1958 they finally had their own church. This was thanks to Onnik and Sarkis Diarbekirean.
These brothers had fled to Milan in the 1920s escaping massacres. They later moved to Argentina. From there they provided the means to build this church in Milan. The Armenian Apostolic Church of Milan is dedicated to the Holy Forty Martyrs of Sebaste. It was constructed in the classic Armenian style.
In 1955 the Italian government recognized the Armenian Apostolic Church community. They officially permitted the construction of the church. Architects R. Israelyan and P. Suryan designed the Armenian Apostolic Church of Milan. Construction finished in 1957. The church was consecrated in 1958.
Today the Armenian community in Lombardy consists of over 1000 people. They are mostly professionals industrialists merchants artists and artisans. The Armenian Apostolic Church of Milan serves as their spiritual home.
Armenians have a long history in Italy. Some trace their presence back to ancient Rome. By the 12th and 13th centuries Armenian communities thrived in Italian city-republics. Trade flourished between Cilician Armenia and Genoa Venice and Pisa. Treaties allowed Italian merchants to establish factories in Armenia. Armenian merchants gained similar rights in Italian towns.
The Armenian Apostolic Church has a rich history in Italy. Over 40 Armenian churches and monasteries existed in Italy between the 12th and 14th centuries. These churches were in Venice Trieste Ravenna Genoa Rome and Naples.
The Armenian Apostolic Church of Milan stands as a symbol of faith community and perseverance. It reminds us of the enduring Armenian spirit. The church serves as a place of worship cultural preservation and community gathering. It is a testament to the strength and resilience of Armenians in Milan. This is their story etched in stone and spirit.