Rediscovering the Legacy of Armenian Churches in Kolkata

Picture this: A bustling port city, Kolkata, in the 17th century, was a hotbed of trade, attracting merchants from every corner of the world. Among them were the Armenians, who arrived not just as traders but as visionaries. They found Kolkata to be a strategic gateway, perfect for expanding their mercantile networks across Asia. While the city was already thriving, the Armenians had to carve out their own niche, battling through struggles of language, unfamiliar customs, and fierce competition. Yet, they didn’t just settle in; they transformed the city. They built magnificent churches, founded businesses, and helped shape Kolkata’s architectural landscape, all while staying close to their roots. The early days weren’t without their hurdles, though.

Being a minority community, the Armenians faced challenges in preserving their culture and identity, especially as time went on and their numbers began to dwindle. However, through resilience and unity, they maintained their influence, building a legacy that endures today. The Armenian churches, standing proudly across Kolkata, are not just places of worship—they are living testaments to the community’s enduring impact. And you’d be amazed to know that these hidden gems, tucked away in the heart of the city, still hold stories waiting to be uncovered. Trust us, you’ve never seen Kolkata like this before. Ready to explore the lesser-known marvels? Let’s take you on a journey through some of the city’s most fascinating and often overlooked Armenian treasures—places that even the locals might not know much about!

The Holy Trinity Chapel Armenian Church

One of the most iconic Armenian churches in Kolkata is the Holy Trinity Chapel Armenian Church, located in the Tangra area near Matheswartala Road. This quaint church, built in 1867, stands as a testament to the enduring presence of the Armenian community in Kolkata. While it might seem like a humble structure at first glance, it hides an impressive legacy.

The church’s history traces back to the late 19th century when the Armenian community was well-established in the city. The Holy Trinity Chapel was built to cater to the spiritual needs of the Armenians who had settled in the area, many of whom were engaged in business and trade. The church, with its serene surroundings, provides a contrast to the bustling streets of Tangra, famously known as Kolkata’s "New Chinatown."

The architecture of the Holy Trinity Chapel reflects the Armenian aesthetic – simple yet profoundly elegant. The structure is adorned with intricate carvings and large wooden beams that support the roof, a design that has remained largely unchanged over the years. The church also features a graveyard, which holds the final resting place of many notable Armenians, some of whose graves date back to 1867.

The atmosphere around the church is peaceful, providing a stark contrast to the surrounding busy streets. The Holy Trinity Chapel Armenian Church also holds regular services, where the congregation gathers to partake in prayers and rituals that have been passed down through generations. In 2007, the church was renovated under the supervision of the Armenian Church authorities, including the presentation of a “khatchkar” (cross-stone) from Holy Etchmiadzin. This was a significant moment in the church’s history, as it marked the preservation of the church’s cultural and spiritual significance.

For history lovers and those seeking tranquillity, this church is a must-visit. You’ll not only marvel at the architecture but also feel the weight of history surrounding you. The church also serves as a focal point for the remaining Armenian community in Kolkata, which, although small, continues to honour its cultural heritage.

Where: Matheswartala Road, Tangra, Kolkata, West Bengal 700046

Armenian Church of Holy Nazareth 

Another gem in Kolkata’s rich Armenian heritage is the Armenian Church of Holy Nazareth, located in Burrabazar. Widely considered to be one of the oldest churches in Kolkata, this sacred place was established in 1688. The church’s enduring significance can be traced to its role in serving the Armenian community, which had started to establish itself in India due to trade activities with the British East India Company.

The church’s history is layered with stories of destruction and rebuilding, as it faced multiple fires over the centuries. Despite this, its resilience shines through. The church we see today was finally completed in 1764, though its original structure dates back to the early 1700s. What stands now is a remarkable piece of architectural craftsmanship, blending Persian and Armenian designs, with stunning frescoes and paintings adorning the walls.

The church's most notable feature is its cemetery, which holds the grave of Rezabeebeh Sookia, dating back to 1630, the oldest Christian grave in Kolkata. The presence of such graves highlights the deep roots of the Armenian community in Kolkata, predating even the British colonisation. The church is also known for its marble decorations and the artwork of the famous English artist A.E. Harris, who painted significant religious scenes like the “Holy Trinity” and “The Last Supper.”

The church holds immense cultural importance, not only as a place of worship but also as a symbol of the long-standing ties between Kolkata and Armenia. It’s an exceptional spot for anyone interested in history, art, and religion, with a sense of serenity that is hard to find in the city’s bustling markets nearby.

Where: 2, Armenian St, Bortola, Barabazar Market, Kolkata, West Bengal 700001

St. Gregory the Illuminator Armenian Church 

Hidden in a quiet corner of Beniapukur, near Park Circus, stands the St. Gregory the Illuminator Armenian Church, the oldest Christian church in Kolkata. Founded in 1708 and rebuilt in 1724, the church’s history mirrors the struggles and triumphs of the Armenian community over the centuries. Despite the passage of time, the church’s role as a spiritual centre for the Armenians remains unwavering.

What makes this church particularly unique is its remote location, tucked away in a residential area, far from the hustle and bustle of the city. This isolation adds to the church’s charm and peaceful atmosphere, allowing visitors to escape the chaos of Kolkata for a while. Inside, the church is adorned with black-and-white marble decorations, with a belfry that also serves as a clock tower, a rare feature in Kolkata’s churches.

The St. Gregory Church also boasts of several notable Armenian benefactors who contributed to its construction, including Catchick Arakiel, who built the monastery and the boundary wall around the cemetery. Inside the church, you’ll find graves of the Armenian community's prominent figures, including the tomb of Rezabeebeh, wife of the late Sookias, a cherished relic within the church.

For visitors interested in exploring lesser-known yet historically rich places, the St. Gregory Church offers a peaceful retreat. The church hosts regular services, including significant rituals like Good Friday, where the burial of Jesus Christ is reenacted, drawing crowds who are keen on experiencing the cultural and religious practices that have been passed down through generations.

Where: Beniapukur, Kolkata, West Bengal 700017

If you’re planning a trip to Kolkata, make sure to include these must-visit lesser-known heritage sites in your Kolkata itinerary for an unforgettable journey through time. Ready to explore Kolkata’s hidden gems?