Saint Thomes Monastery (Altınsaç Church), a 700-year-old historic site in Gevaş, Van, has suffered severe damage from treasure hunters. This significant Armenian heritage site, located 75 kilometers from Van and 40 kilometers from Gevaş, is now on the brink of collapse.
Illegal excavations have left the monastery in ruins, with treasure hunters drilling holes into the columns supporting the church’s dome. Journalist Ziya Türk, who visited the site, reported that the interior is now used as a barn, and the damage from the treasure hunters is extensive. He emphasized the need for immediate restoration to preserve this important cultural and religious artifact for future generations.
Şükrü Akyüz – Ahmet Kavak