How do foreign tourists describe Saint Stephen’s Church on Google?

St. Stephen’s Church is one of the most important Armenian religious buildings in Iran, which is located near the border town of Jolfa, located in West Azarbaijan province. Due to its stunning architecture and historical importance, this beautiful church has been registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site along with three other churches. According to historians, this building dates back to the 3rd century AH (10th century AD). Many international tourists who travel to the northwest of Iran include a visit to St. Stephen’s Church in their program. Some of these visitors have shared their opinions and experiences on Google Maps and reputable websites, which we will review below:

1. Boris Gevorgyan from Armenia

A very beautiful place that can be easily reached from Armenia. You have to reach the Agark-Nordoz border.

2. Muzaffer Üzum from Türkiye

The church is really beautiful. It is located in the border area. This place is located in Jolfa and is very spectacular. But in my opinion, a little more attention should be paid to the restoration work of the church. I recommend you to come to Iran and visit here. Believe me, it is a place full of history and you can find something different everywhere.

3. Tamer Özmaden from Turkey

I considered this place as the first point of my motorcycle trip to Iran, and after a grueling climb, I reached this hill just before sunset. My goal was to take photos and videos from above. The time difference with Türkiye is 1:30. The bureaucracy of entering Iran was extremely long and difficult.

4. Pierluigi Madau from Italy

It is a spectacular structure on the borders of Armenia and Azerbaijan. At the time of the visit, some parts of the building were being renovated. There is no guidance or support for foreigners. It is better to come here with a tour.

5. Yuki (Yuki N) from Japan

This city is located in the northwest of Iran and on the border of Azerbaijan, where many Armenians live. As you climb the mountain, you enjoy the silence. The khaki church and the adjacent monastery was a wonderful place with a great atmosphere.

6. Nicolas Hafner from Germany

A beautiful monastery, located in a beautiful mountain landscape. The complex has been extensively restored and restoration is currently still ongoing inside the church. There is a pleasant silence around the place that you can enjoy; It’s like sitting in a beautiful garden. This monastery is easily accessible by car from Jolfa. It was built for the first time about 1100 years ago; But today nothing remains of its original structure. Since 2008, this monastery, along with St. Thaddeus Monastery and Dzordzor Church, has been part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site under the name of Armenian Monasteries in Iran.

What is your feedback about foreign tourists’ views? If you have ever visited St. Stephen’s Church, share your opinion and experiences with us and other companions where Share it.

_{Cover photo source: Wikipedia website Photographer: Alireza Javaheri}