Armenian Church of St. John the Baptist
Yangon's oldest church, a handsome blend of tropical and Gothic styles, honoring the city's Armenian trading heritage.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Experience a service
Armenian Church of St. John the Baptist
Best Time
Experience a service
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Yangon's oldest church, a handsome blend of tropical and Gothic styles, honoring the city's Armenian trading heritage.
"A must for any Armenian visitor to Yangon, this is the oldest church in the city, built in 1862."
Dress Modestly
Cover shoulders and knees out of respect for this active place of worship. :pray:
Sunday Service
Services are held at 9:30 AM every Sunday. Arrive early for a good spot. :church:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Historic Armenian Architecture
Corner of Bo Aung Kyaw Street and Merchant Road
Yangon's oldest church, a handsome building blending tropical and Gothic styles. A must-see for history buffs.
Legacy of Armenian Traders
Inside the church
Learn about the influential Armenian community, including the Sarkies Brothers, who shaped Yangon's colonial era.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
A Glimpse into Yangon's Past
Respectful Visits
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Dress Modestly
Cover shoulders and knees out of respect for this active place of worship. :pray:
Sunday Service
Services are held at 9:30 AM every Sunday. Arrive early for a good spot. :church:
Saint John the Baptist Church in Abovyan, Armenia. Construction started in 2006 and was finished in 2013.
Armenian Church of St. John the Baptist , built in 1818, in Shushi, Nagorno-karabakh (Artsakh), the church is built according to a unique cruciform scheme. It was one of the main symbols of the Armenians of Shushi. DESTROYED THIS SAME YEAR, 2024, IN THE MONTH OF FEBRUARY by Azerbaijan [564 x 429]
Historical Significance
This is Yangon's oldest church, built in 1862. Appreciate its unique architectural blend. :building_construction:
Photography Etiquette
Be mindful when taking photos, especially during services. Ask permission if unsure. :camerawithflash:
"Azerbaijan has razed to the ground the Armenian Church of St. John the Baptist (Kanach Zham, built in 1818) in occupied Shushi (Artsakh). According to satellite images, church was demolished in Feb 2024. Az purposefully erases all traces of Armenians on their ancestral lands" - Karabakh Records
Tips
from all over the internet
Dress Modestly
Cover shoulders and knees out of respect for this active place of worship. :pray:
Sunday Service
Services are held at 9:30 AM every Sunday. Arrive early for a good spot. :church:
Historical Significance
This is Yangon's oldest church, built in 1862. Appreciate its unique architectural blend. :building_construction:
Photography Etiquette
Be mindful when taking photos, especially during services. Ask permission if unsure. :camerawithflash:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Armenian Church of St. John the Baptist as Yangon's oldest church, appreciating its handsome architecture that blends tropical and Gothic styles. It's seen as a significant historical site, offering a quiet and reflective experience, though some note its simple interior. The church is a must-visit for those interested in the city's Armenian heritage.
"Yangon's oldest church, built in 1862 and consecrated a year later, served Yangon's Armenian trading community, who have been in Myanmar since the 17th century. It's a modest, sparsely decorated yet handsome building."
Miljan Lečić
"It is the oldest church surviving in Yangon (1863), with tropical architecture combined with Gothic features"
Wing k
"A must for any Armenian visitor to Yangon. The Armenians of Yangon built this church in 1862 on land presented to them by the King of Burma. In a now bygone era there were over a thousand Armenians in the city- such famous families as the Sarkies Brothers (who owned the Strand Hotel Yangon, and Raffles Singapore), as well as the Martin Family (AC Martin Engineering helped construct many of the colonial era buildings that still stand today). The church is open to visitors, and service is held every Sunday at 9.30am"
Julfa Hye
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The church is located at the corner of Bo Aung Kyaw Street and Merchant Road in Yangon. Taxis and ride-sharing apps are readily available and are the most convenient way to reach it. It's also accessible by local buses, though routes can be complex for tourists.
While local buses do pass by the area, navigating them can be challenging. Taxis are a more straightforward option for most visitors looking to reach this historic site.
From downtown Yangon, a short taxi or Grab ride will quickly get you to the church. It's a well-known landmark, so most drivers will know the location.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to the Armenian Church of St. John the Baptist is generally free. It's an active place of worship, so donations are appreciated but not required.
The church is typically open to visitors outside of service times. Services are held every Sunday at 9:30 AM. It's best to visit during daylight hours on weekdays for a quieter experience.
There is no admission fee to enter the church. Visitors are welcome to explore the beautiful interior and learn about its history.
Yes, you can usually visit on Saturdays. However, it's always a good idea to check for any special events or services that might affect public access.
🎫 ⛪ Onsite Experience
Visitors should dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees out of respect for the religious nature of the site.
Photography is generally permitted, but it's important to be discreet and respectful, especially during services. Avoid using flash.
Built in 1862, it is Yangon's oldest surviving church and a testament to the city's historical Armenian trading community. It features a unique blend of tropical and Gothic architectural styles.
The church is known for its handsome, sparsely decorated interior, reflecting its historical context and the modest nature of its congregants.
Yes, services are held every Sunday at 9:30 AM. It's a wonderful opportunity to experience the church's spiritual atmosphere.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
History Enthusiasts
Consider attending the Sunday service at 9:30 AM to experience the church in its full capacity as a place of worship. This provides a deeper understanding of its ongoing role in the community and a chance to witness its serene atmosphere firsthand.
Cultural Explorers
Take time to appreciate the modest yet handsome interior, a reflection of the community it served. It’s a perfect spot for those seeking off-the-beaten-path historical sites that tell compelling stories of migration and integration.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Legacy of Trade and Faith
The architectural style of the church is a fascinating fusion, combining elements of tropical design suited to the local climate with Gothic features, creating a unique and handsome structure. Unlike many ornate cathedrals, its interior is described as modest and sparsely decorated, reflecting a more understated approach to worship that was characteristic of its congregants. This simplicity, however, does not detract from its historical and cultural importance. It offers a serene atmosphere for reflection and a tangible connection to Yangon's multicultural past.
Visiting the Armenian Church of St. John the Baptist provides a poignant opportunity to connect with a less-told chapter of Yangon's history. It's a place where one can appreciate the resilience and influence of a diaspora community that contributed significantly to the city's vibrant tapestry. The church remains an active place of worship, with services held weekly, allowing visitors to witness its living heritage.
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