Saint Mary Church

The Church of the Holy Virgin Mary is not only the oldest church in Tabriz, but also the largest one in the city. Its great antiquity makes it a significant part of Tabriz's history. Additionally, the Armenian Apostolic Church ceremony, one of the largest national religious ceremonies, takes place here. The church's convenient location in Tabriz makes it easily accessible from various parts of the city.

The church is located at the corner of North Shariati (north Shahnaz) and Jomhuri avenues in the historical Dik Bashi neighborhood in the center of Tabriz. For many years, Saint Mary's served as the seat of the Azarbaijan Armenian archbishop. It is a handsomely built edifice, with annex buildings sprawled over a large area. A board of Armenian peers governs the well-attended church. The Tabriz Armenian Museum next to the church is run by the Armenian Prelacy of Tabriz.

An older church was built at this site in the 12th century AD (6th century AH). In his travel chronicles, Marco Polo, who traveled through Tabriz around 1275 AD, mentions this church on his way to China.

The oldest gravestone in this church dates back to the 16th century AD. The church has a stone hinge that according to the decor, the type of arch and the architectural features can be attributed to the 13th century AD (7th century AH) and the period of the Mongolian Ilkhan in Iran. According to an inscription, the church – as well as the whole city – was destroyed in a disastrous earthquake in 1780 AD, and the present building was built on its ruins from 1782 to 1785 in Safavid style.
The oldest tombstone found at the Church of the Holy Virgin Mary of Tabriz indicates that the church is approximately 500 to 600 years old. However, some researchers suggest that it may be 700 to 800 years old based on the stone entrance, interior decorations, and various other features. Throughout its history, the church has sustained significant damage, particularly from the earthquake in 1158 AH. Reconstruction efforts commenced three years later, in 1161 AH, and were successfully completed by 1164 AH. Notably, the first printing house in Tabriz was established in 1267 AH within the courtyard of the Church of the Holy Virgin Mary.