Öşvank Church

Embrace Timeless Faith at Erzurum's Öşvank Church – A Relic of Ages Forgotten

Öşvank Church

Öşvank Church was built between 963-973 by Magistras Bağrat, the son of Adernese III, during the Georgian Bagratid Dynasty, according to the inscription on the southern cross arm. Designed by Grigor of Öşk, the church was dedicated to John the Baptist, and the large dome of the building was repaired by Eastern Roman Emperors Basileios II and Constantine VII between 1022-1028. The church’s interior is adorned with numerous frescoes painted by Jojil Potrikios in 1036. The twelve windows on the drum of the dome feature pointed arches and slender designs, reflecting Gothic influence. Following a cruciform layout, the church has a triconch apse and an extended nave, creating a distinctive architectural form. The bases of the columns within the interior are decorated with vegetal motifs and religious iconography, adding to the rich artistry of the structure.

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