The Importance of Akdamar Island and the Church of the Holy Cross for the Christianity in Anatolia

Abstract

A considerable increase in religious structures is seen in the Eastern Anatolia Region following the Medieval Age. The abundance of Christian architectural works around Lake Van also raises concern. Among these architectural structures, Armenian structures come to the fore. Akdamar Island, which occupies an important position within the borders of Van Province, does the honors of important church structure among Armenian structures. The Church of the Holy Cross, located on Akdamar Island, is one of the outstanding Christian religious structures in Anatolia. The monastery takes its name from Akdamar Island and is in the form of a complex. Vaspurakan King Gagik I had the Church of the Holy Cross built by Monk Manuel. The architecture of church, located in the Van Lake basin, has a notable place in the Anatolian region with its architecture and decorations in the cultural context. Akdamar Island and the Church of the Holy Cross draw considerable interest in cultural tourism thanks to their location and important religious architecture. The Church is considered one of the essential cultural values, especially in terms of faith tourism.