The Holy Cross Church located on Akhtamar Island in the lake of Van is one of the architectural monuments, which once was a spiritual big center of Armenia, a component of the Akhtamar Monastery. The Holy Cross Church was built in 915-921 by architect Manvel. In 2007, by the Turkish government decree, the Holy Cross Church of Akhtamar was renovated, and on September 19, 2010, after 95 years of break, a divine liturgy was held in the church. In the night of September 30, a cross was fixed on the dome of the church, something that until then the Turkish government was refusing to do. On September 8, 2013, a baptism took place in the church that functions as a museum.
Recently, “Aravot” met with famous Istanbul-based Armenian architect Zakaria Mildanoğli-Melkonian in Istanbul, who is the restorer of the Saint Cross Church of Akhtamar, and at times also writes articles for “Agos” newspaper. In an interview with Aravot Daily, the architect said, “The restoration of Akhtamar is a big fairy tale.” He told that he has spent three days a week during the restoration works. He did not forget to mention that the Armenian specialists: architects, engineers, linguists, historians, and experts in religious buildings were very helpful. Zakaria Mildanoğlu-Melkonian gives much importance to the fulfillment of joint cultural and social undertakings. He says that small or big action, in this case, is very essential. He was very thrilled that one of the pearls of Armenian architecture can finally be presented to the visitors as appropriate.
Gohar HAKOBYAN
