Ganchvor Monastery (Famagusta)

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Ganchvor Sourp Asdvadzadzin () is an Armenian Apostolic church located in Famagusta, Cyprus.

### History

The church is situated on the northwest side of the walled city of Famagusta, opposite the Carmelite church. It is a fortress-like building constructed in 1346 by Armenian refugees from Cilicia. The architecture reflects a blend of traditional Armenian design with local Cypriot masonry. During its early years, Ganchvor Monastery served as an important monastic and cultural center, where Saint Nerses Lambronachi (also known as Saint Nerses Lampronatsi) is said to have studied.

The church remained unused since 1571 until it was preserved by the Department of Antiquities in 1907. In 1936, the monastery was leased to the Armenian community of Famagusta for a period of 99 years. Following repairs between 1937 and 1944, the first liturgy took place on January 14, 1945, led by Archimandrite Krikor Bahlavouni.

However, in March 1957, the church was partially burned by Turkish Cypriot militia. After being repaired, it continued to be used as a church until 1962. During the inter-communal violence of 1963–64, the monastery was occupied by Turkish forces.

### References

Note: The original sources do not provide specific references for further reading.