Armenian Church
A quiet relic of Dhaka's cosmopolitan past
Overview
Hidden amidst the chaotic, narrow streets of the Armanitola neighborhood in Old Dhaka lies the Armenian Church of the Holy Resurrection. Built in 1781, this beautiful, brightly painted church stands as a quiet, stoic reminder of the rich, cosmopolitan history of Dhaka and the affluent Armenian merchant community that once thrived here.
Stepping through the gates of the church is like stepping back in time. The walled compound completely shuts out the noise of the surrounding bazaars, offering visitors a profoundly peaceful courtyard shaded by ancient trees. The courtyard serves as a cemetery, paved with over 350 historic tombstones dating back to the 18th and 19th centuries, each bearing intricate Armenian inscriptions.
The church building itself features striking colonial architecture, with a large wooden balcony, arched doorways, and a historic spiral staircase leading up to a clock tower. Though the Armenian community in Dhaka has dwindled to almost nothing, the church is meticulously maintained, serving as a vital piece of the city's multicultural heritage.
History & Culture
Armenians arrived in Bengal in the 17th century as prominent traders of jute, leather, and textiles. By the 18th century, they had become one of the wealthiest communities in Dhaka.
The church was built on the site of an earlier Armenian cemetery. Today, it is cared for by a resident warden funded by the global Armenian diaspora.
Top things to do in Armenian Church
Explore the Cemetery
Walk among the historic tombstones in the courtyard, reading the epitaphs and noting the unique, detailed carvings.
Admire the Architecture
View the beautiful arched interiors, the large wooden pews, and the historic balcony of the main church building.
Experience the Silence
Simply sit on a bench in the courtyard and appreciate the profound silence, contrasting sharply with the chaos just outside the walls.
Armenian Church in pictures
Photos via Wikimedia Commons under their respective Creative Commons licences. Click a photo credit for the source and full licence terms.
Highlights
- ✓Beautiful 18th-century colonial architecture
- ✓A profoundly peaceful, tree-shaded courtyard in the middle of Old Dhaka
- ✓Over 350 historic, intricately carved Armenian tombstones
- ✓A striking wooden spiral staircase and bell tower
- ✓A quiet escape from the bustling streets of Armanitola
How to get to Armenian Church
The church is located on Armenian Street in the Armanitola area of Old Dhaka. It is best to take a rickshaw from central Dhaka (like Gulistan or Shahbagh) as the narrow streets are difficult for cars to navigate.
Best time to visit Armenian Church
Winter (November to February): The weather is pleasant for exploring the surrounding Old Dhaka neighborhoods on foot.
Where to stay
Visitors stay in hotels in central or new Dhaka. Old Dhaka has very few tourist-standard accommodations.
What to eat
- 🍽️Traditional Old Dhaka biryani (like Haji or Nanna Biryani) in the nearby Chawkbazar or Nazira Bazar areas.
Travel tips
- 💡The main gates are often kept closed for security. You must ring the bell or knock to have the caretaker open the gate for you.
- 💡Dress modestly, as it is a religious site and an active cemetery.
- 💡The interior of the church is sometimes locked; politely ask the caretaker if they can open it for a quick view.
Nearby Attractions
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there an entry fee?+
No, entry is free, though a small donation to the caretaker for the upkeep of the church is appreciated.
Are there still Armenians living in Dhaka?+
No, the last permanent Armenian resident and long-time caretaker of the church, Michael Joseph Martin, passed away in 2020.
Can I take photos inside?+
Photography of the exterior and courtyard is allowed. Ask permission before taking photos inside the main sanctuary.
