Article Visit of Ani
Town with 1001 churches
The ruins of the former mighty capital of Armenian Kingdom Bagratuni lie right on the Turkish-Armenian border. At the time of its greatest glory it competed in its importance to the largest towns in the Middle East. It was protected by canyons of the rivers on three sides and on the fourth by powerful walls. The town was thus virtually impregnable and until large earthquake in 1319 came and leveled it to the ground, it thrived well. In the ruins of the local ancient churches is now unusual abandoned atmosphere. It is almost unbelievable that up to two hundred thousand people used to live here.
Castle in Ani
After less than an hour’s drive from Kars (1 760 m asl) through farmed upland plateau you finally come to the mythic town of Ani. In front of you are the walls and the remains of the massive castle.
Cathedral in Ani
From the walls continue through barren plains dotted with lots of stones from destroyed buildings. Far and wide over the terrain protrude only a few preserved ruins, such as the former cathedral.
Remains of buildings in Ani
Only stone foundations remained from a lot of buildings in Ani. There is an interesting view of the Church of Our Savior, who looks as if he is cut in half.
Church of St. Gregory
The remains of beautiful church of St. Gregory rise directly above the canyon of river Akhourian.
Detail of Church of St. Gregory
Church of St. Gregory is interesting not only from outside, but also from inside. There are still visible the remnants of the old religious paintings.
Canyon of river Akhourian
The southern boundary of the town was the safest. Deep and steep canyon of river Akhourian allowed virtually no attack. In addition, it was also strengthened by walls. Turkish soldiers built here recently also a fence, probably to prevent Armenians to overcome the river.
Fortification of Ani
On a small rocky promontory above the river, previously almost hidden behind the walls, enthrones a small church.
Cathedral in Ani
The largest building in the ruins is the former cathedral, which is more than a thousand years old. In its heyday it must have been an amazing building. When you are inside at the sunken dome and the wind whistles around you, you have strange feelings and would like to definitely see it here in its heyday.
The oldest mosque in Turkey
Just a short walk from the cathedral is surprisingly Ebul Manucehr Mosque, the oldest mosque built by Seljuk Turks in Anatolia. In the background is visible the old fortress, the highest point on the tour around Ani.
Boundary canyon
Boundary canyon is picturesque even though Armenians mine on the other side of the river in rounded hills stones and devastate thus the countryside.
Valley of Tsalkotsajour
During the ascent to the fortress you will finally see the third valley, which protected the town from the west. It is possible to see carved cave dwellings in the rocky slopes.
The path leading along the valley Tsalko
After you enjoy the views from the fort, you will slowly end the tour by walking along the path above the valley Tsalkotsajour. There will be unsightly border fences around you all the time. But even so, you will sometimes see the herd with herdsman below you. Views of the rocky dwellings and the last church on the way are interesting.
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