Akdamar Island Church Akdamar Church, officially known as the Church of the Holy Cross, is situated on Akdamar Island in Lake Van, part of the Gevaş District in Van Province. Among the four scenic islands dotting the lake, Akdamar stands out as both visually stunning and rich in historical significance. The church was constructed between 915 and 921 AD under the guidance of Armenian architect Bishop Manuel, by the order of King Gagik I Ardzruni from the Kingdom of Vaspurakan. The earliest known reference to its creation comes from a 10th-century manuscript by Thomas Ardzruni, while an inscription found on the western façade confirms the year 915 AD as the start of its construction. A reflection of the religious diversity and complex political dynamics of the 10th-century Vaspurakan Kingdom, the Akdamar Church is a prime example of medieval Armenian architectural brilliance. It is especially celebrated for its intricate stone carvings, which embellish the outer walls with scenes from the Bible, mythical beings, and royal symbols. Crafted under the direction of Bishop Manuel, these detailed friezes were designed to blend spiritual themes with worldly authority, strengthening the Armenian kingdom’s claim to power. Some of the church’s most captivating elements include detailed illustrations of Old Testament stories and distinctive images of Christ, which vary notably from those found in other regional churches. Though a few interior frescoes have survived, many have faded with time. Once a key site for Armenian Christian worship, the church was extensively restored by the Turkish government to maintain its architectural beauty. It no longer hosts regular religious services, but with special permission, visitors may still enter to pray. Acknowledged for its outstanding cultural and historical importance, the Akdamar Church was officially included in UNESCO’s Tentative List in 2015. If you have any questions or need more information about the Akdamar Island Church, feel free to reach out to us at [email protected] or simply send us a message via WhatsApp, and we’ll get back to you as soon as we can.