Saint Sarkis Church and Its Armenian Architectural Features

Tabriz has long been recognized as one of the main settlements of Armenians in Iran. In this city, located in East Azerbaijan Province, there are several Armenian churches, some of which are of great historical and architectural significance and have even been registered on the World Heritage List. Saint Sarkis Church is among these Tabriz churches, notable for its striking and exemplary beauty.

 This church is situated in the Lilabad neighborhood, in one of the central areas of Tabriz, making it easily accessible via the city’s public transportation system. Its precise location is on Baron Avak Alley, and the main entrance of the church opens onto this alley. Baron Avak was a well-known Armenian benefactor who helped impoverished Armenians during his lifetime. After the 1780 earthquake, he organized the area now named after him to provide a place for Armenians to settle. Historically, this neighborhood was outside the boundaries of Tabriz, but today, with the city’s expansion, it lies in its central part. Besides Saint Sarkis Church, the Baron Avak neighborhood also hosts two other churches: the Evangelical Church and the Adventist Church.

The main plan of the church is in the shape of a cross. It has three entrances located on the northern, southern, and eastern sides. The primary construction material is stone, and four brick columns with stone bases support the large brick dome and multiple vaults of the ceiling. The main altar and the prayer area are separated from the congregation by railings. The tomb of a priest named Hakop Qaraptian is located in the eastern section of the church. This area also features other memorials, including one engraved stone listing the names of Armenians who were killed in the 19th century. The memorials in this part of the church are made from stones sourced from the Azarshahr mines.

Inside the altar, the walls are coated with cement. The color harmony between the cemented walls and the wooden doors contributes significantly to the aesthetic appeal of the church interior. Images of Jesus Christ and the Virgin Mary are depicted on the walls. Various religious ceremonial items can also be seen throughout the church. In the upper vault, which can be considered a separate level, there is a designated area for musicians.