Church of the Holy Apostles (Ani)

The Church of the Holy Apostles, also known as the Surb Arak'elots' Church, was a prominent Armenian Apostolic church located in the ruined medieval city of Ani, present-day Turkey. Built in the early 11th century during the reign of King Gagik I Bagratuni, it was intended as a mausoleum for the Bagratid royal family.

The church is noted for its innovative architectural design, which is often seen as a precursor to Gothic architecture. It features pointed arches, ribbed vaults, and clustered piers, elements that predate similar developments in Western Europe. Its architect, Trdat, is also credited with rebuilding the dome of Hagia Sophia in Constantinople after an earthquake.

The Church of the Holy Apostles suffered significant damage over the centuries due to earthquakes and neglect. While parts of the structure were still standing in the early 20th century, a major earthquake in 1988 further damaged the building, and its subsequent collapse has resulted in the church being largely destroyed. Ongoing preservation efforts are debated due to political sensitivities surrounding the site and its Armenian heritage. Its ruins are a significant, albeit endangered, example of Armenian medieval architecture.