The Church of St. Nicholas in Amrakits

The village of Amrakits, with its quaint and fascinating history, has become renowned for one of its most treasured gems – the St. Nicholas the Orthodox Church. While the church now lies inactive and in a state of near-ruin, its storied past and architectural grandeur continue to captivate the imagination of those who visit this timeless site.

Amrakits itself has a captivating narrative, tracing its roots back to the year 1852 when it was founded by 26 Slavic families, particularly Ukrainian Cossacks, who had journeyed from Ukraine to settle in this picturesque region. Initially known as Nikolaevka, the village offered a new beginning for these pioneering families seeking a fresh start in a foreign land. They brought with them not only their traditions and customs but also their profound faith, which would eventually give rise to the awe-inspiring St. Nicholas the Miracle Worker Russian Orthodox Church.

Founded in the 1840s, the church was a testament to the deep devotion and spiritual connection the Slavic settlers held, even in a land far from their homeland. As they sought to forge a new community in Armenia after the annexation of this territory by Russia, the establishment of the church symbolized their unyielding faith and their desire to maintain their cultural identity amidst the new surroundings.

Throughout the years, the St. Nicholas the Miracle Worker Russian Orthodox Church stood tall and proud, bearing witness to the joys and struggles of the villagers it served. However, fate had other plans in store for both the village and its cherished church. The devastating earthquake of 1988 struck the region with unrelenting force, leaving behind a trail of destruction and despair. Amrakits was not spared, and the village found itself on the verge of abandonment as the aftermath of the earthquake compelled many to seek refuge elsewhere.

As the years passed, the church stood solemnly, its doors closed, a poignant reminder of the village’s hardships and losses. Time took its toll on the once-majestic structure, and nature began reclaiming its territory. Yet, amid the fading glory, the resilient spirit of the church endured, and a glimmer of hope remained for its resurgence.

In the year 2020, a reawakening began for both the village of Amrakits and its beloved church. Word began to spread about this hidden gem, attracting the attention of domestic visitors eager to explore the rich history and architectural wonders of the region. With each passing year, more pilgrims and tourists found their way to the church’s hallowed grounds, seeking to connect with the past, and marveling at the craftsmanship and artistry that adorned its walls.

While the church may currently stand in a state of near-abandonment, there is a growing momentum among locals and enthusiasts to restore this historical masterpiece to its former glory. Efforts are underway to preserve the architectural solutions and style that make the St. Nicholas the Miracle Worker Russian Orthodox Church a unique and cherished landmark in the region.

As the sun sets over the village of Amrakits, casting a warm glow upon the worn stones of the church, one can’t help but feel a sense of awe and reverence for the layers of history that have shaped this sacred place. The story of Amrakits and its church is a tale of resilience, faith, and the enduring power of cultural heritage, inviting us to reflect on the importance of preserving our past for future generations to cherish and learn from.

Image credits: armeniajourneyguide