St.Joseph of Arimathea Church, A Fusion of Islamic and Christian Artistry

Kelisa St, Hakim Nezami Ave, Jolfa, Esfahan
"The murals inside have unique features."
4.5

Introduction

Jolfa is a small town located near the border of Iran and Armenia, pronounced as "Keliseh Vank" in Persian. During the reign of Abbas the Great, he relocated tens of thousands of skilled Armenian immigrants to Jolfa for the construction of the new capital, Isfahan, and established the Jolfa district. The Armenian immigrants brought with them the cultural heritage of the Apostolic Church, which gradually took root in Isfahan. They built several churches, with the Vank Cathedral being the most exquisite. The exterior of the Vank Cathedral is unique, as it is a Christian church with an Islamic-style dome, showcasing the coexistence and prosperity of the Safavid dynasty's two religious cultures. The interior of the church is beautifully decorated with various Jesus and Virgin Mary icons, as well as paintings depicting stories from the Apostolic Church, in a grand and magnificent style.
Address
Kelisa St, Hakim Nezami Ave, Jolfa, Esfahan
Opening hours
9:00-20:00
Closed on Fridays.
Transportation
Can be reached by taxi.