Armenia, with its ancient history and rich cultural heritage, also bears the lasting imprint of immigrant communities that settled across its regions. Among them, Greek communities stand out for their contributions particularly in Lori, Syunik, Kotayk, and Shirak regions. These communities not only established thriving settlements but also created spiritual centers that beautifully blend Armenian and Greek architectural styles, serving as  symbols of cultural and religious collaboration. These communities also played a significant role in the economic development of these regions, particularly in the mining industry. In Lori and Syunik provinces, Greek miners and engineers actively participated in the extraction of copper, gold, and other metals, establishing spiritual centers around the mining communities.

Today, although many Greek churches in Armenia are no longer in use, they remain valuable historical monuments with the potential to become attractive tourist destinations for history enthusiasts and architecture lovers.

EXPLORE GREEK CHURCHES IN ARMENIA

Ayios Georgios (Saint George) Greek Church in Hankavan: Situated at the entrance of Hankavan village of Kotayk region, the Ayios Georgios Church was built between 1820 and 1850 by Greek immigrants settled in Hankavan in the early 19th century. The Greek community of the settlement began with seven families and grew into a vibrant community of 250 members by the late 19th century. This is also evidenced by  Greek-style tombstones crafted by skilled artisans around the area attesting the once-thriving Greek presence in Hankavan. Today, only a few Greek families remain, yet the legacy of their community endures.

The church features a simple rectangular foundation and a gabled roof, with its eastern interior adapted to the altars typical of Orthodox churches. Though it ceased operations in the early 20th century, it has been preserved through the dedicated efforts of the local Greek community. A poignant reminder of its historical significance is the nearby cemetery, where Greek-style tombstones crafted by skilled artisans attest to the once-thriving Greek presence in Hankavan.

Saint Haralambos Church in Kapan’s Kavart village:

The history of Kavart village near Kapan is deeply tied to Greek industrialists and their cultural contributions. This Greek community was established in the mid-19th century when Greek entrepreneur Kharlampi Kondourov built a copper smelter in Kavart. Over a hundred Greek workers were brought from Trabzon, establishing the village and creating homes, a hydroelectric station, a bakery, and a school. In 1865, the Kondourov family built the Saint Haralambos Greek Church, also known as the "Berzen Church." This domed structure was constructed using a combination of dark brown tuff and basalt, with white-yellowish limestone adding a unique aesthetic. A bell tower adjoins the western facade, and the tomb of the church’s master builder is located nearby.

Saint George Church in Gyumri: 

Located in the Urums district of Gyumri, the Saint George Greek Church was built in 1850. It once stood opposite the Church of the Savior, in the area now occupied by the city market. The church was demolished in 1933-1934, but a relief of Saint George has been preserved and is currently displayed in Gyumri’s restored Geghcovents Chapel. The area around the Saint George Church was filled with shops and workshops. As evidenced by witnesses, "there were so many stalls and workshops around the Greek church that the church could not be seen from a distance."

Greek churches in Armenia are not only places of worship but also vital components of cultural heritage. Today, their restoration and preservation remain crucial. Reviving these churches offers an opportunity to honor and safeguard the historical and cultural ties between the two peoples, ensuring they remain accessible and recognizable for future generations.