The Armenian Quarter in Jerusalem’s Old City is a must-visit for anyone interested in the city’s rich history. Located in the southwestern corner of the Old City, the quarter covers an area of 0.126 km2 (126 dunam), which is 14% of the Old City’s total. The quarter can be accessed through the Zion Gate and Jaffa Gate, and it’s home to a vibrant Armenian community that has played an important role in the city since the very early days of Christianity.
Visitors to the Armenian Quarter can explore its narrow streets and alleys, which are lined with shops, restaurants, and cafes. The quarter is also home to several important landmarks, including the St. James Cathedral, which is the seat of the Armenian Patriarchate of Jerusalem. The cathedral was built in the 12th century and is considered one of the finest examples of Armenian architecture in the world.
In addition to the cathedral, the Armenian Quarter is also home to several other important religious sites, including the Church of the Holy Archangels, the Chapel of St. Toros, and the Chapel of St. John the Baptist. Visitors can also explore the Armenian Museum, which houses a collection of artifacts and exhibits that highlight the history and culture of the Armenian people. Whether you’re interested in history, religion, or culture, the Armenian Quarter is a must-visit destination in Jerusalem’s Old City.
Historical Background
The Armenian Quarter is one of the four quarters of the Old City of Jerusalem. It is the smallest quarter and is located in the southwestern corner of the city. The quarter has a rich history and is home to numerous important religious and historical sites.
Armenian Presence in Jerusalem
Armenians have been present in Jerusalem since the 4th century, when Christianity became the state religion of Armenia under King Tiridates III. Many Armenian monks settled in Jerusalem during this time, and the Armenian presence in the city has continued to grow over the centuries.
Christianity and Armenians
Christianity has played a significant role in the history of the Armenian people. The Armenian Church is one of the oldest Christian churches in the world, and Armenians have a deep spiritual connection to Jerusalem, which is considered a holy city in Christianity.
Armenian Genocide and Its Impact
The Armenian Genocide, which took place during World War I, had a significant impact on the Armenian community in Jerusalem and around the world. The Ottoman Empire, which was responsible for the genocide, targeted the Armenian population for extermination, resulting in the deaths of an estimated 1.5 million Armenians.
The impact of the genocide can still be felt in the Armenian Quarter today. Many Armenians were forced to flee their homes during the genocide, and the community has struggled to rebuild in the years since. Despite these challenges, the Armenian community in Jerusalem remains strong and resilient.
Overall, the historical background of the Armenian Quarter is a complex and fascinating topic. From the early Christian monks who settled in Jerusalem to the impact of the Armenian Genocide, the history of the Armenian presence in Jerusalem is a testament to the strength and resilience of the Armenian people and their enduring connection to this historical land.
Armenian Quarter Today
The Armenian Quarter of the Old City in Jerusalem is a vibrant community that is home to a number of important sites, cultural institutions, and families. Visitors to the area will find a wealth of things to see and do, from exploring historic churches to learning about Armenian culture and history at the Armenian Heritage Museum.
St. James Cathedral
One of the most important sites in the Armenian Quarter is St. James Cathedral, which is the headquarters of the Armenian Patriarch in Jerusalem. The cathedral is named after St. James, the Apostle and brother of John, and is a beautiful example of Armenian architecture. Visitors can attend daily services at the cathedral, which are conducted in Armenian and are open to the public.
Armenian Convent
Another important site in the Armenian Quarter is the Armenian Convent, which is located next to St. James Cathedral. The convent is home to a number of Armenian monks and nuns, and visitors can take a guided tour to learn more about their way of life. The convent also has a beautiful garden that is open to the public.
Armenian Heritage Museum
For those interested in learning more about Armenian culture and history, the Armenian Heritage Museum is a must-visit destination. The museum features exhibits on Armenian art, music, and literature, as well as displays on the Armenian Genocide and the Armenian diaspora community. Visitors can also browse the museum’s gift shop, which offers a variety of Armenian handicrafts and souvenirs.
Overall, the Armenian Quarter of the Old City in Jerusalem is a fascinating destination that offers a glimpse into the rich history and culture of the Armenian people. Whether you are interested in exploring historic sites, learning about Armenian art and music, or simply soaking up the atmosphere of this vibrant community, there is something for everyone in the Armenian Quarter.
Cultural Highlights
The Armenian Quarter of the Old City of Jerusalem is a hub of Armenian culture. Visitors can immerse themselves in the rich cultural heritage of the Armenian community through its cuisine, festivals, celebrations, and art and craft.
Armenian Cuisine
Armenian cuisine is a fusion of Middle Eastern, Mediterranean, and Eastern European culinary styles. It is characterized by the use of fresh ingredients, herbs, and spices. Visitors can taste the unique flavors of Armenian cuisine in the Armenian Quarter’s restaurants and cafes. Some of the popular Armenian dishes include:
- Khorovats: grilled meat skewers marinated in spices
- Khash: a soup made from cow’s feet
- Dolma: stuffed grape leaves or vegetables with rice and meat
- Lahmacun: a thin pizza-like bread topped with minced meat and vegetables
Armenian Festivals and Celebrations
The Armenian community celebrates a number of festivals and celebrations throughout the year. Some of the notable festivals and celebrations include:
- Christmas: celebrated on January 6th according to the Julian calendar, the Armenian Christmas is a festive occasion with religious services, feasting, and gift-giving.
- Easter: also celebrated according to the Julian calendar, the Armenian Easter is a time of religious celebrations and feasting.
- Vartanants Day: commemorates the Battle of Avarayr in 451 AD, when Armenian soldiers fought to defend their Christian faith against the Persian Empire.
Armenian Art and Craft
The Armenian Quarter is home to many artists and craftsmen who create beautiful works of art and craft. Visitors can explore the Armenian Museum, which showcases the rich history and culture of the Armenian people. The Cathedral of St. James is another must-see destination, with its stunning Armenian architecture and intricate carvings. The Armenian Carpet is a well-known art form, with its unique designs and vibrant colors. Visitors can also find beautiful Armenian ceramics, jewelry, and textiles in the Armenian Quarter’s shops and markets.
Overall, the Armenian Quarter of the Old City of Jerusalem is a cultural gem, offering visitors a unique glimpse into the rich heritage and traditions of the Armenian community.
Religious Significance
The Armenian Quarter of the Old City in Jerusalem is a significant religious site for Christians worldwide. It is home to several religious landmarks that have great importance to the Armenian Christian community.
St. James Cathedral
One of the most significant landmarks in the Armenian Quarter is the St. James Cathedral. It is the seat of the Armenian Patriarchate of Jerusalem and is considered one of the oldest Christian churches in the world. According to tradition, St. James, one of the apostles of Jesus, is buried in the cathedral. The church is open to visitors and is a must-visit for anyone interested in Christian history.
Church of the Holy Sepulchre
Another important landmark in the Armenian Quarter is the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. This church is one of the holiest sites in Christianity. It is believed to be the site where Jesus was crucified, buried, and resurrected. The church is shared by several Christian denominations, including the Armenian Orthodox Church. Visitors can explore the church and visit the Armenian Chapel, which is dedicated to St. Helena, the mother of Emperor Constantine.
Armenian Patriarchate
The Armenian Patriarchate is an important institution in the Armenian Christian community. It is the oldest Christian institution in Jerusalem and has been in existence since the 4th century. The Patriarchate is responsible for overseeing the Armenian Quarter and maintaining its religious landmarks. The current Armenian Patriarch of Jerusalem is His Beatitude Archbishop Nourhan Manougian.
Overall, the Armenian Quarter of the Old City in Jerusalem is a significant religious site for Christians worldwide. Its landmarks, including St. James Cathedral, the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, and the Armenian Patriarchate, are important to the Armenian Christian community and offer visitors a glimpse into Christian history.
Contemporary Issues
Land Lease Controversy
The Armenian Quarter of the Old City in Jerusalem has been at the center of a land lease controversy that has sparked protests and fears of displacement among the residents. In May 2023, a real estate deal involving a 99-year lease of a large section of the Armenian Quarter was signed, causing panic among the residents who feared losing their homes to a mysterious investor. The deal was met with widespread opposition, and volunteer Armenian lawyers have been working to challenge it in court.
Interfaith Relations
The Armenian Quarter is unique in that it is the only quarter in the Old City that is not dominated by one of the three monotheistic faiths – Christianity, Islam, and Judaism. The quarter is home to the St. James Cathedral, which is the seat of the Armenian Patriarchate of Jerusalem. Despite the interfaith nature of the quarter, tensions between the Armenian community and their neighbors have been high in recent years, particularly in the wake of the land lease controversy.
Political Challenges
The land lease controversy has also had political implications, with the Palestinian Authority and Palestinian President expressing concern over the potential displacement of the Armenian community. The controversy has been seen as a test of the status quo in the Old City, which has been maintained since the Ottoman era. The real estate manager, Baret Yeretsian, has been accused of being a scapegoat in the controversy, and has been defrocked by the Armenian Patriarchate of Jerusalem.
The controversy has also raised questions about international law and the political challenges facing the Armenian community in Jerusalem. Despite these challenges, the Armenian community has remained resilient, and continues to work towards a peaceful resolution to the land transfer issue.
Tourist Attractions
The Armenian Quarter of the Old City of Jerusalem is a must-visit destination for any traveler interested in exploring the rich cultural heritage of the city. The quarter is a peaceful oasis that is steeped in history and offers a wide range of tourist attractions. Here are some of the top attractions to check out:
Historical Sites
The Armenian Quarter is home to several historical sites that offer a glimpse into the past of Jerusalem. One of the must-visit sites is the Armenian Cemetery, which is located just outside the Zion Gate. The cemetery dates back to the 13th century and is the final resting place of many notable Armenians.
Another historical site worth visiting is the Cardo, which is an ancient Roman road that runs through the Jewish Quarter. The Cardo was the main street of Jerusalem during the Roman period and is now a popular tourist destination.
Religious Sites
The Armenian Quarter is home to several religious sites that are of great significance to Christians. One of the most important sites is the St. James Cathedral, which is the main church in the quarter. The cathedral dates back to the Crusader period and is dedicated to St. James the Great.
Visitors should also check out St. Mark’s Chapel, which is one of the oldest churches in Jerusalem. The chapel is located in the courtyard of the Armenian Patriarchate and is a beautiful example of Armenian architecture.
Culinary Experiences
The Armenian Quarter is home to several restaurants that offer a wide range of culinary experiences. Visitors can enjoy traditional Armenian cuisine at restaurants like the Armenian Tavern and Touro Restaurant. The Armenian Tavern is known for its delicious kebabs and meze, while Touro Restaurant offers a modern twist on Armenian cuisine.
For those looking for a sweet treat, the quarter is home to several bakeries that specialize in traditional Armenian pastries like baklava and kataifi. The best place to try these pastries is at the Armenian Market, which is located in the heart of the quarter.
Overall, the Armenian Quarter is a must-visit destination for any traveler interested in exploring the rich cultural heritage of Jerusalem. With its historical sites, religious sites, and culinary experiences, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
