Church and Patriarchate of the Virgin Mary

Church of the Virgin Mary and Patriarchate are historical structures located on Republic Square in the Artuklu district of Mardin Province, belonging to the Syriac Catholic Community. The church was constructed in 1860 and is notable for its acoustic design and decorative elements. The patriarchate building was constructed in 1895, underwent restoration in various periods, and is currently used as a museum.

Church of the Virgin Mary and Patriarchate(Türkiye Culture Portal)

History

The Church of the Virgin Mary was built in 1860 and served as a place of worship for the Syriac Catholic community. During expansion works carried out between 1914 and 1915, part of the old patriarchate building was demolished. The patriarchate was constructed in 1895. Transferred to the Ministry of Culture in 1988, it was restored and opened as a museum in 1995.

Renovation work in the church was carried out in 1986 by Patriarch Ignatios Antuhan Semheri of Antioch. The structure on Republic Square is currently used for both worship and visitation purposes.

Architectural Features

The Church of the Virgin Mary stands out for its acoustic sound system. The patriarch’s seat and the pulpit in the church are adorned with wooden craftsmanship, particularly featuring grape cluster motifs. The building includes arches, round stone columns, and railings in the courtyard. These architectural elements contribute to the church’s elegant appearance.

The patriarchate building exhibits architectural characteristics typical of the late 19th century. The restored sections have served as a museum since 1995.

Restoration Works

It is known that the Church of the Virgin Mary has undergone restoration in various periods. The patriarchate was transferred to the Ministry of Culture in 1988, restored, and opened as a museum in 1995. Additionally, a three-year restoration project was carried out in the church, and after its completion, a ceremony was held to reopen the building for worship.