Due to the presence of Christians, Iran hosts a number of famous churches that Some of them have a lot of reputation worldwide. The St. Thaddeus Monastery is one of these churches located in West Azerbaijan.
The name of this spectacular destination is the Ghareh church, the Thaddeus Church, or the Church of Tetavus. In the old days, the Azerbaijani people spoke in the Azeri language (the ancient language of Azerbaijan). It can be assured that before the eighth century, the Tetavus Church was known to the people by another name. This church is one of the most valuable religious buildings in Christianity. This church is one of the most valuable religious buildings in Christianity. This historic church, which has traversed all the bitter and sweet events, today hosts one of the most important ceremonies of the Armenians.
This significant holy building is so high that it has been named on the World Heritage List (UNESCO) and has become a valuable heritage of the world.
Tetavus was one of the apostles of Christ, who, during the Parthians (40 or 43 AD), entered Iran to promote the religion of Christianity. In 66 AD, Tetavus and his followers were killed at the command of the king of Santruk. Armenians believe that the corpse of the sacred Tetavus is located in the right chamber of the altar of the current church.
In addition to sacredness, the specific features of the architecture of this building also make a significant contribution. The St. Thaddeus Monastery is enclosed by thick walls of defense, towers, and a bulwark. This church has the main entrance and a few small doors. So, it can be considered a castle. On the four sides of this church are five Watchtowers that form an arc.
The church is located on a hillside that on the east side is a shallow valley with a stream running through it.
The eye-catching relief of the outer wall of the church is embellished with black and white marble stones, creating a spectacular sight on the ceiling of the church altar.
This church is divided into two new and old parts. In 1319, a strong earthquake caused the destruction of the church. The eastern part of the church was the only part that was not damaged. Damaged parts were rebuilt by a person called Zakaria within ten years. The eastern part, which is healthy, is black, and the new part is made of white marble, which gives the church two colors. The older part of the black building does not have a lot of decorations and is very simple.
The best time to visit the church is from May to the end of October. Remember not to go to church in the first week of August because the entrance of non-Christians is forbidden due to the religious ceremony.
The best way is to start the trip from Tabriz, and after passing through the cities of Marand and Qarahziyaeddin. Then go to Showt-Chaldoran Road and a little driving, you will see the St. Thaddeus Monastery at the junction to your right.
“Oh! Squander not this breath that Heaven hath lent thee, Nor make too sure another breath to borrow!’” Khayam