Church of the Young Girls
The Church of the Young Girls is an ancient structure situated near the Arpaçay River, which forms the border between Türkiye and Armenia, built upon steep cliffs. This structure is a space that once hosted the spiritual beliefs of past communities and bears significant traces of architectural and artistic heritage. Such historical structures are vital for understanding ancient civilizations and their ways of life.
The Church of the Young Girls (Culture Portal)
Time Travel
The exact date of the church’s construction is not definitively known. However, based on its architecture and decorations, some experts believe it was built approximately 800 years ago, in the 13th century. Its survival over such a long period is one of the features that make it valuable. This structure is an artistic legacy that has endured from the past to the present.
The Church of the Young Girls (Culture Portal)
What Are Its Architectural Features?
The Church of the Young Girls has a cylindrical, circular plan. Its roof is crowned with a conical spire resembling a tent.
The exterior walls feature intricate decorative elements, including geometric patterns and plant motifs carved skillfully into the stone. These details are significant indicators of the artistic sensibilities of that era.
The structure is surrounded by high walls built to protect it. Due to its location on difficult-to-access rocky terrain, the church has remained relatively well preserved until today.
The Church of the Young Girls (Culture Portal)
Why Is It Important?
The Church of the Young Girls is located at the starting point of an important caravan route throughout history. A caravan route refers to the major roads used in the past for transporting merchants and goods.
The fact that the church was built on steep cliffs—in a hard-to-reach location—suggests it may have served as a monastery (a religious center for learning and monastic life). According to some sources, this structure was part of a monastery dedicated to the nuns of Saint Hripsime.
The Church of the Young Girls (Culture Portal)
