Pages:  199-215 | DOI: https://doi.org/10.55086/sp256199215

Functioning as a monastic church, this monumental building stands out for its uncommon spatial design and intricate stone carvings. It gracefully merges Armenian and Western European traditions in both architecture and sculpture. Crafted by unknown artisans, the structure is considered a rarely studied example of medieval architecture. The exact construction date is uncertain; while most attribute its origins to the mid-14th century, some theories place it between the 15th and 17th centuries. The prevailing view suggests the church was erected between the late 16th and early 17th centuries, likely after 1602, following a major migration of Armenians to Crimea due to upheavals caused by Celali rebellions. This dating is supported by the unique architectural and structural aspects of its masonry.

Keywords: Crimea, Bogate village, Amenaprkich Monastic Complex, Church of St. Elijah, Armenian architecture, architectural decoration, gargoyle

Information about author:

Vladimir Kirilko (Simferopol, Crimea). Candidate of Historical Sciences. Institute of Archaeology of Crimea of the Russian Academy of Sciences. Academician Vernadsky Ave., 2, Simferopol, 295007, Crimea
E-mail: [email protected]
ORCID: 0000-0002-5431-9127