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
AffiliationArmenian Apostolic Church
Location
LocationByurakan, Aragatsotn Province,  Armenia
Surp Hovhannes Church, Byurakan is located in Armenia
Surp Hovhannes Church, Byurakan
Shown within Armenia
Surp Hovhannes Church, Byurakan is located in Aragatsotn
Surp Hovhannes Church, Byurakan
Surp Hovhannes Church, Byurakan (Aragatsotn)
Geographic coordinates40°20′24″N 44°16′13″E / 40.3400°N 44.2703°E / 40.3400; 44.2703
Architecture
TypeBasilica without dome
StyleArmenian
Completed10th century

Architecture

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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.

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References

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Bibliography

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  • 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
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