Ruins of the Armenian Church of Surb Urbat in Crimea

The photograph shows the ruins of the Armenian Church of Surb Urbat in Crimea, about 28 kilometres from Sudak. The church stands on a low hill and is regarded as a valuable example of medieval Christian architecture. The roof has collapsed, and the open sky can be seen from inside. Trees and bushes have grown between the arched stone walls, and fallen stone blocks lie on the floor.

The exact date of its founding is unknown, but an inscription on the west wall records a restoration in 1702. Services ceased at the end of the 18th century, when Christians were forcibly deported from Crimea. In 1778, 212 Armenians were expelled from the settlement of Topli, after which the church gradually fell into ruin.