Armenians held the 11th of their annual rituals at the Ahtamar Surp Cross Church on Akdamar Island in Türkiye’s Van district. This year’s version of the ritual, which has been held on Akdamar Island since 2010 with the permission given by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, was led by the 85th Armenian Patriarch of Turkey Sahak Mashalyan today and lasted for about an hour.
The church, built by Monk Manuel between 915-921 by Vaspurakan King Gagik I, is of great importance for the Armenian people. Armenians consider visiting this church as a religious obligation.
“It is one of the most beautiful indicators of freedom of belief and worship in Türkiye. From the moment we stepped in we were greeted with the best hospitality. State authorities took all precautions and we held a peaceful ceremony,” said Sahak Maşalyan, the 85th Armenian Patriarch of Türkiye.
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