Saint John Church

Saint John Church is a house of worship in Sohrol featuring three domes, with a central dome topped by a conical roof and decorative brick patterns in traditional styles. The brick structure incorporates architectural elements from both Sasanian and Qajar periods.

The church was constructed around 1840 through collaboration between Russian, French, and Azerbaijani craftsmen. An earthquake later damaged parts of the building, though significant features survived intact.

This church is dedicated to Saint John and reflects the Armenian Christian tradition that once flourished in the region. It remains a testament to the religious diversity that characterized this area.

The building sits along the road connecting Tabriz and Marand, making it a stopping point while exploring the region. The brick structure has weathered the elements over many decades, so take time to notice the details.

The bell tower features a rare 16-pointed star pattern in its floor plan, an unusual geometry for religious buildings in this region. This intricate design choice reveals the skill of the craftsmen who built it.

Location: Shabestar County

Official opening: 1840

Architectural style: Sasanian architecture, Qajar architecture

Made from material: brick

GPS coordinates: 38.29847,46.19639

Latest update: December 7, 2025 20:43