St. Bartholomew Church

Bartholomew, one of the twelve apostles of Jesus, traveled to Anatolia, the Caucasus, and India to spread Christianity after Jesus ascended to heaven. It is rumored that Bartholomew, who died in the 70s AD, incurred the wrath of the local people for converting an Armenian king named Polymius to Christianity and was martyred by order of the king's brother, Astyages. Following this event, Armenians living in Albayrak in the 3rd century built a small church on the spot where they believed the apostle was martyred.

Based on sources related to the monastery, it is accepted that the church and its jamatun were built between the late 13th and early 14th centuries. A colophon in a manuscript dated 1457 documents that the structures were decorated by Archpriest Kirakos. The church underwent extensive renovation in 1651 during the episcopacy of Vardapet Kirakos, with the support of Catholicos Philippe. The surviving structure largely dates to the 17th-18th centuries and was severely damaged in the 1966 earthquake.

The church is situated on a rectangular area extending in an east-west direction. The monumental portal in the center of the western facade is emphasized by a pointed arched pediment; it is delimited by columns at the corners, forming a pointed arched recess. The reliefs on the portal are among the most valuable elements of the structure: the struggle of two horsemen in the pediment, and in the upper section, a figure of God seated on a throne carried by six angels. Doves are depicted on God's shoulders, and lion figures beneath his feet.

The square-plan jamatun is covered by a cross vault resting on four opposing arches; the covering apart from the arches is currently ruined. The church, accessed through a door from here, has a central dome and a cross plan. The apse in the east is five-arched, with priest cells on its sides. The entire structure is built with finely cut stone material.

Spring (April-June) and autumn (September-October) are the most suitable periods for both road conditions and climate. During these periods, the green appearance of the Great Zap Valley adds a special beauty. In winter months, roads around Başkale can become difficult due to snow and ice; it is advisable to check road conditions before visiting in this season. Summer months can be hot but are still suitable for visiting; morning hours are cooler and more favorable for photography.

There is approximately 150 km distance by road from Van city center to Başkale district. After reaching Başkale, continue in the direction of Albayrak Village; the church is located on a hill at the village entrance. It is possible to drive up the slope leading to the hill, but careful driving is essential as the road is narrow and uneven. Public transportation options are quite limited; the most practical method of transportation is a private vehicle or a taxi hired from Başkale. Organized tour options from Van can also be considered.

The portal reliefs on the western facade are among the details that most interest photographers. The figures of horsemen and the angel depictions above appear much more distinct, especially in side light; therefore, arriving before noon provides an advantage. The view of the Great Zap Valley to the left of the church is also a frequently recommended photography spot by visitors. The structure has also been photographed at night once; nature photographers recorded both night and day images with a 6-hour work.

The church is in a dilapidated state and lacks official visitor infrastructure. Since there are ruined sections and an uneven floor inside, it is important to wear sturdy shoes and move carefully. The structure has been subjected to destruction by treasure hunters; its roof collapsed in the last Van earthquake. As it is located within the boundaries of an old military area, you encounter an abandoned guardhouse at the entrance. Since there are no facilities (cafe, toilet, market) in the area, it is recommended to bring water and food with you.

St. Bartholomew Church is located on the route known as Vanadokya. Stopping on the way from Van towards Başkale to visit the church, and then continuing to Vanadokya, forms a very logical itinerary. A comprehensive 2-3 day Van tour can be planned by combining it with Lake Van and Van Castle. The time allocated for the church visit is 1-2 hours.