Armenian churches in the eastern province of Van will be restored, deputy governor said on Monday.

Speaking to the A.A correspondent, Van deputy governor Halil Berk said that Armenian churches in Carpanak Island and Yukaribakracli village in the province would be restored within the scope of a project prepared by the governor's office.

Berk said they were conducting projects to boost tourism potential of the province.

"There are four islands including Akdamar Island in Lake Van. Every island has a church. Only Akdamar Church was restored. Churches in Carpanak Island and Yukaribakracli village will also be restored with the project prepared by us," Berk said.

Varagavank Monastery includes seven churches in Yukari Bakracli village. The oldest church is St. Sophia Church built in the 8th century.

Carpanak Church which was built in the 6th century was restored in 1462. After an earthquake in 1703, the church was restored between 1712 and 1720.


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