Surp Hovhannes Church, Byurakan
Surp Hovhannes Church (Armenian: Սուրբ Հովհաննես եկեղեցի; translates to the "Church of Saint John") is an important 10th century basilica located in the village of Byurakan in the Aragatsotn Province of Armenia. Not very far away from S. Hovhannes in the same village, are the ruins of the Artavazik Church of the 7th century with a huge 13th-century khachkar monument directly across the ravine from the structure.
| Surb Hovhannes Church | |
|---|---|
 Basilica Church of S. Hovhannes at Byurakan | |
| Religion | |
| Affiliation | Armenian Apostolic Church |
| Location | |
| Location | Byurakan, Aragatsotn Province,  Armenia |
  Shown within Armenia | |
| Geographic coordinates | 40.3400°N 44.2703°E |
| Architecture | |
| Type | Basilica without dome |
| Style | Armenian |
| Completed | 10th century |
Architecture
Surp Hovhannes has two portals that lead into the building. The main entrance is from the side of the church, and has an inscription upon the lintel above the portal. Indications of the structure's age can be seen in the temple style steps leading up to S. Hovhannes and the Maltese Crosses carved into the façade.
Khachkars and other decorative stones may be found around the premises.
Gallery
Road map of Byurakan and surrounding region.
Front view
View of the church bells and upper story windows
Rear of the basilica with portal.
Interior of the basilica.
Khachkar with twelve arms (below cross) representing the Twelve Apostles at the Last Supper
Unusual pillar style khachkar with a Maltese Cross located down the road from the church.
References
Bibliography
- Kiesling, Brady (June 2000). Rediscovering Armenia: An Archaeological/Touristic Gazetteer and Map Set for the Historical Monuments of Armenia (PDF). Archived (PDF) from the original on 6 November 2021.
- Kiesling, Brady (2005), Rediscovering Armenia: Guide, Yerevan, Armenia: Matit Graphic Design Studio
External links
