Armenian Church of the Holy Nazareth

আর্মেনিয়ান চার্চ

The oldest church in the city, built by Armenian merchants in 1724.

About Armenian Church of the Holy Nazareth

Armenian traders were in Bengal before the English, and they built this church in 1724 on the site of their burial ground. It is the oldest surviving church in Kolkata. The churchyard is paved with old tombstones, one of which carries a date of 1630, often cited as evidence that Armenians lived here well before Job Charnock arrived.

Why visit

A hushed, white courtyard hidden in the loudest market in the city.

What to see and do

The churchyard paved with tombstones
The altar and its paintings
The memorial to the victims of the Armenian genocide

Plan your visit

Area: Burrabazar, Central Kolkata
Nearest landmark: Brabourne Road, Burrabazar
Best time: Morning. October to March is the most comfortable time of year.
Time needed: About 30 minutes
Cost: Free
Entry: Entry is controlled (permit, caretaker, service times or event days). Visitors are admitted by the caretaker; hours are not currently verified.
Metro: Mahatma Gandhi Road (Blue Line) or Mahakaran (Green Line)
Walking: Some walking
Photography: Photography is fine with some care.

Tip

The gate is on Armenian Street, deep in Burrabazar. Ring for the caretaker.

Nearby and related places

Magen David Synagogue: A red-brick synagogue of 1884 with a tall clock spire.
Portuguese Church: The Catholic cathedral, founded in 1799 for the Portuguese community.
Mullick Ghat Flower Market: A vast wholesale flower market under Howrah Bridge.
Beth El Synagogue: An 1856 synagogue on Pollock Street.
Armenian Ghat: A ghat built by an Armenian merchant in 1734.
Nakhoda Masjid: The city’s principal mosque, in red sandstone.

Walks that include it

Many Faiths Walk: A cathedral, two synagogues, an Armenian church and a great mosque

More guides

Last checked on 2026-10-02. Each place was checked to exist and its position confirmed. Timings, closing days and ticket prices are shown only where known and can change: confirm before you travel.