Akdamar Island Lake Van

Sourp Khatch, the Church of the Holy Cross, is located on the island of Akdamar in Lake Van, eastern Turkey; it was built as a part of a palace and religious complex between 915 and 921 under the direction of King Gagik Ardzruni by the architect Trdat Mendet (also known as Manuel). Although it is one of the best known examples of Armenian architecture, it is also unique in that there is no comparable example in terms of the reliefs and decorative features that adorn the exterior of the building. The grace