Ardabil
Arg-e Bam
Abyaneh
Babak Castle
Behistun
Chogha Zanbil
Dasht-e Lut
Golestan Palace
Isfahan
Imam mosque
Kashan
Kharanaq
Mashhad
Masuleh
Meymand
Pasargadae
Naqsh-e jahan
Naqsh-e Rostam
Persepolis
Rayen Citadel
Saint Thaddeus
Saint Stepanos
Shiraz
Shushtar
Sultan Amir Ahmad
Tabriz
Takht-e Soleyman
Tehran
Tower of Silence
Yazd
Monastery of Saint Thaddeus
Armenia, through the chapel of Saint Thaddeus (West Azerbaijan Province, Iran), is the first country to officially adopt Christianity in this region of the world. It is undoubtedly one of the oldest churches in the world. The history of this building is far ahead of all Armenian churches. If you want to visit a unique place, which can make you plunge back into the heart of the advent of Christ, whether you belong to Christianity or not, the chapel of Saint Thaddeus is perfect for you.
Saint Thaddeus Monastery also known as Kara Kilise (Black Church) has a fascinating history. His Majesty Sanatruk suffered from an incurable disease. Finding no remedy, he appealed to Thaddeus, a servant of Christ. Thaddeus healed the king who in turn allowed him to spread Christianity in the country. Many people then converted to the religion among which was the king's daughter. Since the number of Christians grew rapidly, the sovereign tried to put an end to this spread by massacring all the converts: more than 3,500 victims, including Thaddeus and the princess. Following this event, the chapel of Saint Thaddeus was built on the site where they were buried in order to honour them.
Monastery is a religious building that has incredible architecture. It opens into the side of a mountain, and is supported by a cone-shaped cupola. Still called the black church, this chapel enjoys an exceptional decoration. Once there, you will realize that this dominant black hue is none other than that of the stones used for construction. Note that it has been destroyed several times by natural disasters. Nevertheless, because of the importance of this site, a reconstruction was made while preserving the original form of the building.
Every year, many visitors flock to this church to reinvigorate their faith, and to pay homage to the creator of heaven and earth. Join them. You will meet Catholic families there as well as followers of the Assyrian Church. Get acquainted with the Armenians of Tabriz, Tehran, cities of Iran and many more. You can attend a multitude of events such as the baptism of children. Mix with this Christian crowd, and you will receive heavenly blessings.
The particularity of this chapel lies in the plethora of mountains that surround it. Hills protect the site from possible external attacks. The environment is sparsely inhabited, and not taking advantage of this natural asset would be regrettable. It is a godsend for hiking enthusiasts. A walk around the site will allow you to examine it better.
