Saint Sarkis Cathedral: Tehran’s Armenian Heritage
Explore Tehran’s Largest Church: Saint Sarkis Cathedral Guide
Saint Sarkis Cathedral, the largest church in Tehran, stands as a historic and spiritual center for the Armenian community. Built during the Pahlavi era, this magnificent structure serves as the headquarters of the Armenian Diocese in Tehran, drawing visitors with its architectural charm and serene atmosphere.
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Location of Saint Sarkis Cathedral
Located at the intersection of Karim Khan Zand and Nejatollahi streets, Saint Sarkis Cathedral is accessible from Tehran’s major metro stations. The nearest stops are Valiasr Square (Line 3) and Haft-e Tir (Line 1), each about a 15-minute walk from the cathedral. Visitors can also reach it by taking a taxi to Valiasr or Haft-e Tir squares.
History of Saint Sarkis Cathedral
In the mid-20th century, with a growing Armenian population in Tehran, the need for a larger church closer to the Armenian neighborhoods of northern Tehran emerged. Previously, the Saint Mary Church served as the Armenian Diocese’s headquarters, but its location and size became inadequate.
With the support of a benefactor, Markar Sarkissian, the diocese acquired land at Karim Khan Zand and Nejatollahi streets. Architect Eugene Aftandilian designed the cathedral, and construction began on April 3, 1964, led by Bishop Ardak Manoukian. After delays, the cathedral was completed in 1973 and has undergone several restorations, the latest in 2012.
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Who Was Saint Sarkis?
Saint Sarkis was an Armenian saint and a member of the Roman army during the early 4th century. Due to his Christian beliefs, he fled to Armenia for refuge and later served in the army of Persian King Shapur II. Eventually, Saint Sarkis, along with his son and fellow soldiers, were martyred in Nishapur.
Architectural Highlights of Saint Sarkis Cathedral
Saint Sarkis Cathedral, stretching 36.5 meters in length and 17.8 meters in width, is built in a single-nave basilica style with a cross-shaped interior. White marble walls and a grand, dome-like structure define its exterior and interior design. Inspired by Armenian medieval and modern architectural styles, the cathedral’s dome is designed to appear suspended, lacking traditional support columns.
Weight Distribution and Dome Structure
Unlike most dome structures that rely on support columns, Saint Sarkis Cathedral’s design distributes the dome’s weight using eight horizontal beams supported by walls. This unique feature enhances the open feel within the cathedral’s hall.
Altar and Interior Design
The cathedral’s altar is semi-circular and elevated slightly above the main hall. The surrounding walls are decorated with religious artwork by Edman Ayvazian, and the dome’s design includes 16-sided arches supported by beams.
Windows and Entrances
The cathedral’s main hall features tall windows extending from top to bottom, while the eastern and western halls have narrower windows with Armenian religious motifs. The primary entrance is on the west, flanked by two smaller entrances beneath the bell towers.
Bell Towers and Armenian Genocide Memorial
The cathedral has two bell towers positioned over the west entrance, each with a dome matching the main structure. Beneath these towers lies a memorial dedicated to the Armenian Genocide, standing 3.5 meters high with inscriptions in Persian and Armenian commemorating Armenian martyrs.
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Visiting Saint Sarkis Cathedral
Currently, visits to Saint Sarkis Cathedral are restricted due to COVID-19 protocols. Under normal circumstances, it is open daily from 1 PM to 4 PM, free of charge. Visitors should call ahead to confirm visiting hours as restrictions may apply. Please note that visitors are expected to respect the spiritual setting by avoiding photography, maintaining silence, and dressing modestly.
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