Rabat Church

Rabat Church is a medieval structure located in the Çamlık neighbourhood of Bulanık Village, which is part of the Ardanuç district of Artvin Province. The church shares similar architectural features with other churches and structures in the region and is believed to have been built during the Bagratid Kingdom period.

Rabat Church (Ardanuç District Governorate)

History

Although the exact date of construction of Rabat Church is unknown, it is believed to have been built during the Bagratid Kingdom in the 10th or 11th century. Abandoned in the late 16th century, the structure has been damaged over time. Secret passages belonging to the monastery section have been recorded, but many of these passages have been damaged.

Architectural Features

Built using rough-hewn stone masonry, the structure has a free-standing cross plan. The tower in the central section is covered by a Renaissance dome. The dome's cornice features triangular niches, which are rare in regional architecture, and the number of these niches exceeds the number of window openings. To the east of the central space is a rectangular bema, and on either side of the apse are pastoforion rooms covered with barrel vaults. The other parts of the structure are covered with pointed vaults. The exterior facades and window edges are decorated with carved stones featuring relief plant motifs. There are no frescoes inside the structure.

Restoration Work

There is no mention in the sources of a comprehensive restoration of Rabat Church. Although the parts of the structure that remain today largely retain their original structural features, damage and natural wear and tear are evident. Future restoration work is planned to preserve and restore the structure.