Cesmeli Church (Surp Asvadzadzin Church)

Cesmeli Church (Surp Asvadzadzin Church)

The Çeşmeli Church, which is also referred to as the Surp Asvadzadzin Armenian Church, is situated in the Tapucak District at the heart of Karaman. This district holds a deep historical significance, having been home to Armenians, Greeks, and Turks coexisting prior to the First World War and the subsequent population exchange.

Cesmeli Church (Surp Asvadzadzin Church)

The district is home to numerous remarkable landmarks, such as the Byzantine-style Çeşmeli Church, the Ottoman-style Yeni Hamam, the Karamanoğlu-style Araboğlu Mosque, and traditional Turkish houses. Moreover, the area features Armenian homes built in a European architectural style, as well as Greek houses.

The Çeşmeli Church is a fine example of the small basilicas found in the Binbir Church in the Karadag region. Although its exact construction date remains uncertain, it is thought to have been built in the 17th or 18th century. Constructed from cut stone, the church has three longitudinal naves. Its original design originates from the Byzantine period, though it was repurposed as a prison until the 1980s. In recent years, some alterations have been made to the church, but its external architecture has been carefully preserved.

The structure underwent restoration in 2007 and is currently managed by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism. Since its restoration, the church is open to the public and hosts various events such as exhibitions, meetings, and music performances.

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