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Surp Asdvadzadzin (Mother Mary) is the oldest preserved Armenian church in Bulgaria. A stone inscription reveals that it was the temple was erected was 1069 in the Armenian Chronology, which corresponds to 1620 of the Gregorian calendar. It was initially named "Surp Krikor Lousavvoric" and dedicated to St. Gregory the Enlightener. The church dome is decorated with frescoes, which can be seen in very few other Apostolic churches around the world. The frescoes in the Silistra temple were restored in 1990 by local artist Karen Markaryan. In contrast, there are no frescoes on the walls, but oil paint icons instead. A specific arrangement of openings on the top of the northern and southern walls of the central hall create the unique acoustics of the church. This feature of the architecture is also quite rare. Later additions to the original house of prayer include an anteroom and crypt, a choir balcony and above it – a belfry. The Church of Surp Assadzazzin has a valuable collection of artifacts. Ritual objects, priestly robes and bibles from 1686 and 1730 are among the most precious objects. The Church library stores over 400 Armenian books, some of which are unique. Of great value is the book "The Armenians in Silistra - past and present" by historian Ivan Zanov. This is the first written study of the Armenian community in the city.

The Armenian colony in the city of Silistra appeared in early 17th century, during the years of the Ottoman domination of the Balkans. First references to the presence of Armenians in Dobrudza region date back to 1551. The oldest preserved documents of tax collection from the Armenians inhabiting the Silistra district date back to 1622. In 2005 a memorial commemorating the victims of the Armenian genocide was built in the churchyard. A solemn memorial service is held every year on April 24. The descendants of the survivors honor their ancestors and renew their oath to remember and preserve their mother tongue and culture.

Surp Asdvadzadzin church is a Christian temple and an important cultural heritage site. Today the church is welcoming a diverse group of visitors beside orthodox worshipers.

The temple celebrates its patron saint with the Feast of the Assumption of Virgin Mary. A solemn Holy Mass is held in the glory of the Holy mother, the patron of maternity, marriage, and family hearth. Typical of the feast is the delivery of a matagh, containing light grapes, bread and meat. The holy ritual incorporates sacrificial offerings, prayer and charity. Another important temple holiday is Tarkmanchats, the day of translators. It honors enlighteners St. Mesrop Mashtots and St. Sahag Bartev. The Armenians around the world appreciate that their unique alphabet and language are among the main factors for preserving their identity.

- Direct visit -
Virtual visit - See the photo galleries in the media resources section.
Classroom activity - Let’s Know Our Community” from the Teachers’ guide - https://bit.ly/2DsRWEe