Historic church and castle await restoration in Erzurum
The historic Oshvank Church and Engüzekkapi Castle in the eastern Anatolian province of Erzurum’s Uzundere district are awaiting restoration and infrastructure projects that local authorities believe could strengthen both cultural and faith tourism in the region.
Located in the Çamlıyamaç neighborhood, Oshvank Church was built in the 10th century during the reign of Georgian King Adarnase. The monument, considered one of the most important examples of medieval Georgian architecture in the region, has suffered extensive deterioration over the years.
Structural deformations have appeared in the church’s load-bearing system, while damage has been reported in its walls, columns and ornamental features. Despite monitoring and reinforcement studies conducted in previous years, officials warn that the building remains at risk of collapse.
Uzundere Mayor Halis Özsoy said the church complex consists of three separate structures and is facing serious structural challenges.
