Armenian Church of the Holy Nazareth

Often referred to as the Mother Church of Indian Armenians, the Armenian Church of the Holy Nazareth is the oldest church in Kolkata. It was built by Agha Nazer in 1724 after the original existing structure was destroyed in a fire in 1688. The Holy Nazareth is one of the three existing Armenian churches in the city along with Saint Gregory the Illuminator and Saint Mary’s Church. The architecture of the Holy Nazareth was designed by a Persian architect named Kavnod (or Hevnod). The interiors are decorated with marble and the walls of the church are adorned with paintings and frescos. A cross, the Gospel text and twelve candlesticks symbolizing Jesus Christ's twelve apostles adorn the altar. The altar is further decorated with three paintings titled Last Supper, Holy Trinity, and The Enshrouding of Our Lord by English painter A.E. Harris. The church attracts several visitors and tourists round the year who not only offer prayers but are equally fascinated by the architectural grandeur of the monument. Unique to the city of Kolkata, a visit to the Armenian Church of the Holy Nazareth will add to your list of unique experiences.