Jolfa in Isfahan - Armenian Churches and Armenians in Iran

New Julfa is the Armenian quarter of Isfahan, Iran, located along the south bank of the river Zayandeh River. In 1606 it was established as an Armenian quarter by edict of Shah Abbas I, the influential shah from the Safavid dynasty. Over 150,000 Armenians were moved there from Julfa (also known as Jugha or Djugha) in Nakhichevan, Azerbaijan. Iranian accounts state that the Armenians came to Persia fleeing the Ottoman Empire's persecution (see this article on Iranian churches); Armenian accounts state that the population was moved by force and their hometown destroyed (see Hin Jugha in Armeniapedia). All accounts agree that, as the residents of Julfa were famous for their skill with silk textiles, Shah Abbas hoped that their settlement in Isfahan would be beneficial to Persia.New Julfa is still an Armenian-populated area with an Armenian school and at least twelve churches, including Vank Cathedral, the Church of Bethlehem at Nazar Avenue, Saint Mary church at Julfa Square and the Yerevan church in the Yerevan area. Armenians in New Julfa observe Iranian law with regard to clothing, but otherwise retain a distinct Armenian language, identity and culture. Popular with young people in Esfahan, it is experiencing considerable growth compared to other districts. Vank Cathedral, also known as The Church of the Saintly Sisters, is the most visited cathedral in Isfahan, Iran. Vank means "cathedral" in the Armenian language. Vank Cathedral was one of the first churches to be established in the city's Jolfa district by Armenian immigrants settled by Shah Abbas I after the Ottoman War of 1603-1605. The varying fortunes and independence of this suburb across the Zayandeh River and its eclectic mix of European missionaries, mercenaries and travelers can be traced almost chronologically in the cathedral's combination of building styles and contrasts in its external and internal architectural treatment.

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