“Curious about a church that has risen from ashes?” I ask. Welcome to the Surp Garabed Church in Istanbul. It stands as a testament to the enduring Armenian presence in this city.
The Surp Garabed Church is one of Istanbul’s oldest Armenian churches. It is located in the Üsküdar district on the Asian side. A manuscript suggests it was built shortly before 1593.
Legend says masters from Van and Muş built it. They had come to Üsküdar to construct a mosque. Priest Zakarya from Van renovated the church in 1617. The third restoration occurred in 1727. Sarkis Kalfa was the architect during Patriarch Hovhannes IX Golod’s time.
Imagine this area centuries ago. Opposite the church stood a monastery for Jerusalem’s clergy. Patriarch Krikor Şıftayagir of Jerusalem added new sections. By 1838, the Cemaran school replaced the demolished monastery east of the church. A large vineyard, enclosed by walls, stood next to it.
The Surp Garabed Church faced trials. It was renovated in 1844 during Patriarch Asdvadzadur II’s reign. In 1887, a fire reduced it to ashes. The church was rebuilt in 1888. Patriarch Harutyun I oversaw this with charity from the Unciyan brothers, Matteos and Apig. Today, two high stone bell towers stand proudly on either side of the front facade.
Consider the architectural details. The Surp Garabed Church was built in traditional Armenian style. It has a rectangular plan crowned with a dome. A bell tower rises gracefully. A courtyard invites reflection with its fountain. Renovations and expansions marked the 18th and 19th centuries.
Step into the courtyard. Three fountains offer refreshment. Five gates welcome visitors. A double-storey gallery sits above the entrance courtyard. Chapels flank the front section. This area was a cultural hub in the 18th and 19th centuries. Patriarch Golod even opened Istanbul’s first school next to the Surp Garabed Church.
The Surp Garabed Church played a vital role for Istanbul’s Armenian community. It was a center for religious activities. It offered refuge during persecution. Significant events unfolded here. Catholicos Sahak II was elected in 1803. The first Armenian Patriarch of Istanbul was consecrated in 1832.
The most recent restoration took place in 2006. Patriarch Mesrob II consecrated it. The church reopened for worship.
The Surp Garabed Church stands as a reminder. It shows the Armenian presence in Istanbul. It highlights their contributions to the city’s culture and history. Today, the Surp Garabed Church remains an active place of worship. It welcomes all to explore its rich heritage. As you leave, remember the resilience and spirit embodied within these stones.