Chupan Chapel, Armenian chapel near Aras River, Jolfa County, Iran.
Chupan Chapel is an Armenian Apostolic chapel in East Azerbaijan Province, Iran, built from stone and mortar. It follows a cross-shaped floor plan with plain, unadorned walls that clearly show traditional Armenian construction methods.
The chapel was built in the early 16th century to serve shepherds living in this remote mountain valley. It underwent a thorough renewal in the 19th century that kept it standing to this day.
The chapel takes its name from two Armenian Christian shepherd brothers who lived and prayed in this remote mountain area. The plain stone walls, free of decoration, still reflect the simple faith of the community that built it.
The chapel sits in a high mountain area near the Aras River and is reached along the route to Saint Stepanos Monastery in East Azerbaijan. Visitors should be prepared for uneven paths and changing mountain weather.
Although the chapel is listed as Iranian National Heritage, its remote location means many visitors to the nearby Saint Stepanos Monastery never make it here. Those who do find one of the few Armenian sacred sites in Iran that still stands in its original setting.
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