The Muradiye Municipality of Van has started a road work to make it easier for visitors to go to the Saint Stefanos Church, which was built in the 17th century.
Work was initiated to bring the Saint Stefanos Church in the Muradiye district of Van to tourism. In this context, Van Museum Directorate teams also examined the area where road works were started in order to provide easier access to the church.
Van Yüzüncü Yıl University Department of Art History Faculty Member Mehmet Top said that he has been conducting research and investigations on historical buildings in the region for a long time. Stating that the church stands out both with its historical past and its architectural features, Top said:
“Some of these structures have survived to the present day and some have disappeared. In this sense, it is remarkable that the church survived with its architectural features both inside and outside. This shows us that the church is a structure that can be brought to faith and cultural tourism. We learned that Muradiye Municipality was going to make a road work here. If a little easier transportation is provided, this region will contribute to tourism.”
Muradiye Municipality Culture and Social Affairs Director İbrahim Aslanbay stated that the teams of the Van Museum Directorate carried out an investigation in the church.
Stating that the church, which has historical importance, was damaged due to natural conditions and insensitive people, Aslanbay said, “Our District Governorship has started the necessary works for the historical church not to be destroyed, to bring it to tourism and to restore it. We started the road work for the church in the first place. Our visitors will now be able to go to the church more easily.” (Ntv)
