Surp Giragos Armenian Church

The Surp Giragos Armenian Church is located in the Özdemir neighborhood, near the Sheikh Matar Mosque, within the city walls. According to land registry records, it is notable as a church used by Orthodox Armenians. While the exact construction date of the church is unknown, its name first appears in the travelogue of Simeon of Poland between 1610 and 1615. A significant work in Armenian architectural history, the church is also known as the largest Armenian church in the Middle East. Completely destroyed in a great fire on June 10, 1881, the church was rebuilt in 1883. Possessing an imposing architecture, the structure has undergone three renovations over time.