Restoration commences on historic Church of Saint Peter and Saint Paul in Adiyaman, Turkey, damaged by earthquakes

ADIYAMAN, Turkey — The process of restoration and repair has commenced on the historic Mor Petrus and Mor Paulus Church (Church of Saint Peter and Saint Paul) in Adiyaman, Turkey, to repair damage caused by the devastating earthquakes in February 2023.

Dating back to sometime around the 4th and 5th century AD, with renovations between 1885 and 1905, Mor Petrus and Mor Paulus Church recently reopened its doors after undergoing repairs due to severe damage caused by the earthquakes.

Muhammad Bilali, the head of the Endowments Department in the city of Adiyaman, explained in a media statement that although the church’s basic structure remained intact, the recent earthquake had inflicted significant damage, prompting a thorough assessment for subsequent restoration and repair.

The restoration efforts aim to preserve the historical and cultural significance of church, which stands as one of the oldest churches in Turkey and the world.

Aisha Arsoy, the official overseeing antiquities in Antioch (Antakya), noted that while the church’s foundational structure endured, cracks appeared in its walls during the earthquake. Dedicated maintenance teams will now undertake the meticulous work required to fully restore the church to its former glory.