Hossein Mahmoudi: Restoration of the Holy Church of Masroop is Necessary to Prevent Destruction

Hossein Mahmoudi announced that to prevent the destruction of the Holy Church of Mesrop, it is necessary to begin restoration immediately.

The Mesrop Church of Arak dates back to the Qajar period and this work, located on Shahid Chamran (Nisanian) Street in Arak, was registered as a national monument in 1990. With its pleasant and beautiful architecture, this church is considered one of the outstanding works of Armenian architecture and a blend of culture, art, and coexistence that welcomes many tourists every year during Nowruz. 

Hossein Mahmoudi, deputy head of the Department of Preservation and Restoration of Cultural Heritage, Tourism and Handicrafts of Markazi Province, said yesterday, Monday, May 19, about the restoration of the Mesrop Church in Arak: "10 billion rials of credit is needed to restore the Holy Mesrop Church in Arak with the aim of preventing the destruction of this historical monument. This amount of credit is estimated to be for dehumidifying part of the roof and northern side of the church, external insulation, and removing additions."

Regarding the visit and announcement of the renovation of this church, he added: "Following the Central Governor's visit to the Arak Church, he announced the necessary order for the renovation of this work, and the governorate was introduced as the provider of the necessary funds, and the cultural heritage was also introduced as the custodian of the renovation. The last renovation of the Mesrop Church of Arak was carried out in 2020 with 450 million rials, which requires a new renovation to preserve and maintain this work."

Hossein Mahmoudi emphasized in this regard: "If this historical monument is maintained, there will be no need for restoration for the next few years, but if there is a shortcoming, it will be necessary to renew its restoration with greater credibility."

Most of the citizens of the Armenian community in the Central Province live in the city of Arak, most of whom are of the Gregorian branch and celebrate the anniversary of the birth of Jesus Christ in this church 6 days after the beginning of the New Year.