Chupan Church

Chupan Church, also known as "Saint Andreas" (Andre Verti), stands in East Azerbaijan Province near the city of Jolfa, beside the Aras River and among red-hued mountains. The church was built in the 16th century (1518 CE) and was used as a place of worship by Armenian shepherds living in Darreh-Sham. The name "Chupan" (shepherd) was chosen because of its connection with the pastoral activities of the area.

Chupan Church was added to Iran's National Heritage list in 2003 CE (1381 SH) and inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2008 CE (1387 SH). With a cross-shaped plan measuring 7.7 by 5.7 metres, it is one of the smallest churches in Iran. The entrance is on the western side and the altar on the eastern side of the building. Over the centuries the church has been restored several times; the most important restorations took place in 1836 CE (1315 SH) and in 2015 CE (1394 SH). The dome has a circular plan with four windows facing the cardinal directions, the main building materials are stone and mortar, and the interior walls are covered with plaster. Despite its small size, its arches are built in the pointed style, reminiscent of Armenian church architecture. The church has no decorative stone carvings, but its simplicity reflects an austere, local style of architecture.

One of the most interesting features of this church is its unique geographic setting, where the boundary between nature and spirituality fades and the building itself has become part of its surroundings. To reach Chupan Church, head west from the city of Jolfa and after about 5 kilometres you will arrive at this historic site. The best time to visit is spring and autumn, when the weather is mild and the natural scenery around the church is very beautiful. The church is open to visitors every day from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.