Armenian Church of the Holy Nazareth, Religious landmark in Burrabazar, India
The Armenian Church of the Holy Nazareth is a Christian place of worship in the Burrabazar neighborhood of Kolkata, India, and also contains a cemetery within its grounds. The interior features marble surfaces, dark wooden pews, and tall windows that let in natural light across the nave.
The original wooden structure on this site burned down in 1707, and a new stone building was commissioned by Agha Nazar. The current structure was completed in 1724 on the grounds of the earlier Armenian burial site.
Twelve candles placed at the altar each represent one of the apostles who brought Christianity to Armenia. This practice is still visible during services and connects Kolkata's Armenian community to its religious roots.
Entry to the church and cemetery is free, but photography inside the building requires permission from the staff. Exterior photography is allowed without restrictions, so it is worth asking before taking out a camera indoors.
Silver chandeliers shaped like open flowers hang from the ceiling and sit in sharp contrast to the broad Doric columns below them. Most visitors notice the columns first and only later spot the chandeliers, which quietly shape the feel of the whole interior.
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