ifilm’s tour of Saint Stepanos Monastery in Jolfa

The Saint Stepanos Monastery, Iran’s second ever-built church, today is a tourist destination in East Azerbaijan Province.

The religious monument was originally constructed in the 9th century in the city of Jolfa that has common borders with the Azerbaijan Republic and Armenia.

Years later a major earthquake hits and parts of the church severely destructs. During the Safavid empire era, the building gets restorations. 

The monastery has its name from Saint Stepanos that was one of the first martyrs of Christianity. In fact, around the world there are several churches of the same name to honor the great man of religion.

The Saint Stepanos Monastery is recorded among the world heritage sites by UNESCO.

AA/FM