Armenian Rock-Carved Church in Kayseri Destroyed by Tomb Raiders

The Armenian Church of the Holy Annunciation, located in the Bahpınar neighborhood of the Melikgazi district in present-day Kayseri (historical Caesarea), Turkey, has been subjected to multiple raids and continues to face attacks from treasure hunters. This was reported by Ermenihaber.

As a result of the raids, the church has been significantly damaged, especially the murals on its walls, which have suffered from gouges and cracks.

Ömer Nalbant, the village head of Bahpınar, mentioned in an interview with Turkish media that the current state of the church is very unfortunate, expressing hope that the relevant authorities will restore it and turn it into a tourist destination. Nalbant noted that he has installed iron doors and locks on the church several times, but to no avail, as the treasure hunters have broken them each time.

In conclusion, the Turkish source mentions that representatives from Kayseri's provincial culture and tourism administration have stated that all churches in the province have been registered. Some work is planned, though specific timelines remain unclear.