Tekor Basilica, 5th century Armenian church in Kars Province, Turkey
Tekor Basilica is a 5th century Armenian church in Kars Province featuring three aisles topped by a dome. The structure was built with stone and mortar, though today only the lower wall sections remain standing.
The building was constructed in the 480s and held one of the earliest known examples of written Armenian language. Strong earthquakes struck the site in 1912 and 1936, causing significant damage to the structure.
The site reflects Armenian building traditions that drew worshippers for centuries. The remains show how this location served as a spiritual center for the local community.
The ruins stand roughly 16 kilometers west of the Armenian border near the town of Digor. Since only low wall sections remain, wear comfortable shoes and prepare for uneven ground.
During the 1960s, the church's facing stones were removed and used to construct the nearby town's municipal building. This reflects how ancient materials were often repurposed for contemporary structures.
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