The creators of the home of the divine
Years ago, in 1688, a few people convened together, donated money, and built a small church called the St. John’s Church. It was hailed as the first Armenian church. It was a beautiful and rustic edifice made of wood which would have been an architectural brilliance for everyone to appreciate had it not burnt down in a fire a few years later. A decade and seven years went by, and then the Holy Church of Nazareth was constructed on the old burial ground of the Armenian community by Agha Nazar. That is the reason it was called the Nazareth’s church. An architect named Levon Ghevond from Iran flew down to oversee the design and construction of this church. He did build the entire edifice, but the imposing belfry and the steeple were later added by Mr. Manuel Hazarmall. A few years later, the church underwent repairs and renovation under the supervision of Khojah Petros Arratoon. He added a subtle touch of beauty by including small embellishments and two altars. As you enter the church and walk to your right side, you will find the main altar that was built in memory of his brother Gorgin Khan. But if you wander off to the left side you will find another altar that he built in his memory.
Elegant echoes of history
While your eyes breeze from one carving to the next fresco, you will notice a mammoth sized clock. The opulence will take your breath away, and its history will leave a trace of amusement. It is said that this lavish, colossal sized clock was gifted by Agha Catchik Arakiel to the church. He had ordered it specially from the famed firm of Alexander Hare of London and it was transported all the way to India to grace the walls of this church .
Etching life after death
The church is dotted with Centotaphs and Epitaphs. The designs and the compositions are so breathtakingly beautiful that you’d wish you had enough time to gaze at them for hours. The Church is brimming of these in some places and it will be impossible for you to roam around without placing your foot on one.
The first ever christian tomb in kolkata
You can also visit the tomb of Rezabeebeh, the wife of the late Sookias. It is a cherished relic dating back to the early 18th century. Adorned with ornate carvings and nestled within the church's serene confines, it serves as a poignant reminder of Kolkata's rich Armenian heritage and cultural legacy. The Armenian Church was built as a congregation center for the Armenians. It also welcomed and housed the Armenian Vicar of India.
Beauty inside. Beauty outside
If the whiff of Armenian culture and history has intrigued you, take a walk to the Magen David Synagogue. It is on the Armenian street and is a prominent religious place for the Jews. It is more than 150 years old and usually neglected by tourists in Kolkata. But if you are in the mood to shop and eat, don’t think twice before dashing to Burrabazar. It is said to be one of the oldest markets in India. From food to clothes to spices, to furniture, you name it and you’ll find it here.
In a nutshell, the church will be an interesting addition to your itinerary. We can tell you it isn’t the most popular of tourist places in Kolkata but it sure ranks as one of the most invigorating experiences you can have in the city.
