Worshippers gather at historic church on Akdamar Island for annual service
AA Photo
An annual Armenian divine liturgy has been held at the historic Surp Hach Church on Akdamar Island in Lake Van, marking the 14th service at the nearly 1,100-year-old monument since it reopened for worship following restoration.
The service was led by Patriarch Sahak Maşalyan of the Armenian Patriarchate of Türkiye and brought together visitors and worshippers from Türkiye and abroad. Mesrop Parsamyan, spiritual leader of the Armenian Church of the Eastern Diocese of the United States, also took part in the ceremony.
Located in the eastern province of Van, the Surp Hach Church is one of the most significant surviving examples of medieval Armenian architecture in the region. Built between 915 and 921 under King Gagik I Artsruni, the church is renowned for elaborate stone reliefs covering its exterior walls and depicting biblical scenes and religious figures.
