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The Armenian Church: A Heritage Echo in Chennai

Discover Chennai's Armenian heritage at this 300-year-old church, a peaceful sanctuary with a rich history and unique architectural charm.

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The Armenian Church, or the Armenian Church of Virgin Mary, stands as a testament to Chennai's historical links with Armenia. Constructed in 1712 and reconstructed in 1772, this heritage site features a belfry with six bells and a peaceful courtyard housing the graves of around 350 Armenians.

A brief summary to The Armenian Church

  • 37VQ+H5M, 60/116, Armenian Street, near High Court, Chennai, Parry's Corner, George Town, Tamil Nadu, 600001, IN
  • Visit website
  • Monday 9:30 am-2:30 pm
  • Tuesday 9:30 am-2:30 pm
  • Wednesday 9:30 am-2:30 pm
  • Thursday 9:30 am-2:30 pm
  • Friday 9:30 am-2:30 pm
  • Saturday 9:30 am-2:30 pm
  • Sunday 9:30 am-2:30 pm

Local tips

  • Visit during the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat.
  • The church is open from 9:00 AM to 2:30 PM daily.
  • Witness the ringing of the six bells every Sunday at 9:30 AM.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Armenian Church is located in George Town, easily accessible by foot from nearby landmarks such as the Madras High Court. From the High Court, walk along Armenian Street; the church will be on your left. No costs are involved.

  • Public Transport

    Chennai has an extensive public transportation network. From Chennai Central Railway Station or Chennai Beach Railway Station, take a local bus or suburban train to Parry's Corner. From Parry's Corner, the church is a short walk along Armenian Street. Bus fares typically range from ₹5 to ₹20. Suburban train fares range from ₹5-₹10.

  • Ride-Sharing/Taxi

    Ride-sharing apps like Ola and Uber are readily available in Chennai. A taxi or auto-rickshaw ride from Chennai Central Railway Station to the Armenian Church will cost approximately ₹80-₹200, depending on the distance and time of day. Negotiate the fare beforehand with auto-rickshaws.

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Discover more about The Armenian Church

Nestled in the bustling George Town neighborhood of Chennai, the Armenian Church, also known as the Armenian Church of Virgin Mary, offers a serene escape into history. Built in 1712 and reconstructed in 1772, it stands as one of the oldest churches in the Indian subcontinent, a legacy of the Armenian traders who once thrived in Madras. Inside, the church boasts a simple yet elegant architecture. A chessboard floor design and religious paintings adorn the walls, while the wooden altar adds a touch of sophistication. The belfry houses six large bells, each with its own unique history and inscriptions, believed to be the heaviest in Chennai. These bells are rung every Sunday at 9:30 AM. The churchyard serves as a final resting place for around 350 Armenians, their tombstones whispering stories of a community that played a significant role in Chennai's trade and commerce. Among those buried here is Haroutiun Shmavonian, the founder of the first Armenian journal, "Azdarar". Today, the Armenian Church functions primarily as a heritage site, maintained by the Armenian Church Committee of Calcutta. It stands as a reminder of Chennai's multicultural past and the contributions of the Armenian community to the city's rich tapestry.

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