Cathedral of Ani to operate as Turkish mosque after renovation

The Cathedral of Ani, located in the archaeological site of Ani, included in UNESCO’s World Heritage list, is being renovated. The Turkish state news agency Anadolu reports that after the renovation, the cathedral will function as a mosque, according to Ermenihaber.

There is no mention whatsoever that this medieval city and church are Armenian. The Cathedral of Ani is presented as the Fethiye Mosque. However, it is also noted that the architect of the cathedral is Trdat.

“We also know Trdat as the architect who renovated the dome of Hagia Sophia in Istanbul. Trdat was invited from Ani to Istanbul, where he renovated the dome of Hagia Sophia, then returned to Ani and completed this structure,” said Muhammet Arslan, head of the excavation works at the Ani archaeological site.

He also stated that the renovation of the Cathedral of Ani is proceeding in three phases, in cooperation with Turkey’s Ministry of Culture and Tourism and the Foundation for the Preservation of Historic Monuments. This year, the work on the second phase is scheduled to be completed.

The ruins of Ani, covering an area of about 100 hectares, also include the Holy Saviour Church, the Church of Tigran Honents, and the Abughamrents St. Gregory Church.

The Cathedral of Ani, also known as the Holy Mother of God Church, was built in the 10th century. Construction began in 989 by the Armenian king Smbat II Bagratuni and was completed in 1001 by Queen Katramide of Armenia.