Armenian Church George Town
A serene 18th-century Armenian Orthodox Church in George Town, Chennai, known for its historic architecture and six bells.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Hear the bells ring!
Armenian Church George Town
Best Time
Hear the bells ring!
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene 18th-century Armenian Orthodox Church in George Town, Chennai, known for its historic architecture and six bells.
"A peaceful and historic gem in the heart of Chennai, offering a serene escape from the city's chaos."
🎯 Sunday Bell Ringer
Visit on Sundays around 9:30 AM for the unique experience of hearing the church's six bells ring.
🤫 Respectful Photography
Photography of the ringing bells is not allowed, and you can't go near the bell tower.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Six Bells
Bell Tower
Hear the rare chime of the church's six large bells, a sound that echoes through George Town.
Historic Architecture
Church Interior and Exterior
Step back in time with beautifully preserved 18th-century architecture, a testament to Chennai's cosmopolitan past.
Armenian Cemetery
Church Grounds
Explore the resting place of around 350 Armenians, with tombstones offering a glimpse into the community's history.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds for Serenity
Finding This Hidden Gem
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Sunday Bell Ringer
Visit on Sundays around 9:30 AM for the unique experience of hearing the church's six bells ring.
🤫 Respectful Photography
Photography of the ringing bells is not allowed, and you can't go near the bell tower.
📍 Navigating George Town
The church is easily missed. Ask locals for the Armenian Church on Armenian Street, Parry's Corner.
🚶♀️ Peaceful Escape
Step inside to escape the city's chaos; the serene atmosphere is a welcome contrast.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Sunday Bell Ringer
Visit on Sundays around 9:30 AM for the unique experience of hearing the church's six bells ring.
🤫 Respectful Photography
Photography of the ringing bells is not allowed, and you can't go near the bell tower.
📍 Navigating George Town
The church is easily missed. Ask locals for the Armenian Church on Armenian Street, Parry's Corner.
🚶♀️ Peaceful Escape
Step inside to escape the city's chaos; the serene atmosphere is a welcome contrast.
🙏 Open to All
The church is open to everyone for prayer and reflection, even without regular mass.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Armenian Church George Town as a peaceful, historic gem with beautifully preserved architecture. It offers a serene escape from the city's hustle, with many appreciating the caretaker's insights. However, finding the church can be challenging due to its discreet location amidst busy streets.
"A peaceful and historic gem in the heart of Chennai. The beautifully preserved historic architecture and serene atmosphere make it a special place. The caretaker offers a warm welcome and shares personal insights into the church’s unique history – well worth a visit!"
Marc van der Spek
"This is a stunningly beautiful Armenian Orthodox Church built in 1712. From the outside you won't even know that such a beautiful church exists, as the street outside is very busy and congested and the church's exterior wall and the main entrance may not be easily identifiable. Even the street vendors outside wrongly directed me to the catholic church nearby when I asked them about the Armenian church!! The place is maintained extremely neat and clean. It is a different feeling when you step inside the compound and as you walk past the main entrance the chaos of the busy city vanishes and you are suddenly transported into a different place altogether like a time traveler!! The place is very calm and quiet unlike the noisy and chaotic streets just outside!!! The caretaker informed that the church is open to all and anyone can come and pray. There is no regular mass at this church. It is maintained by a few Armenian families in Chennai. If you enjoy peaceful and calm places of worship, then this place is a must visit place for you!!!"
T P T
"Hidden Armenian culture in the heart of chennai. Better to visit on Sundays at 9:30am since that’s the only time you can see the bells ringing. The church might not be open late so it’s always better to visit early and not late.
Photography and videography of ringing bells not allowed . You are not allowed to go near the bells. The bell tower is locked."
Jilu Varghese
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Armenian Church is located on Armenian Street, Parry's Corner, George Town. It's a busy area, so look carefully for the church's exterior wall and main entrance. Street vendors might mistakenly direct you to the nearby Catholic church, so be specific when asking for directions.
Parking in George Town can be challenging due to the busy streets. It's advisable to use ride-sharing services or public transport to reach the vicinity and then walk to the church.
George Town is a vibrant commercial hub. Consider arriving by auto-rickshaw or taxi, which can drop you closer to Armenian Street. Be prepared for pedestrian traffic and street vendors.
The church is situated in the heart of George Town, a historic commercial district. Nearby landmarks include Parry's Corner and various other colonial-era buildings.
Yes, Chennai's public bus network serves George Town extensively. Alight at a stop near Parry's Corner and walk to Armenian Street.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no admission fee to enter the Armenian Church. It is open to all visitors and worshippers.
The church might not be open late. It's best to visit earlier in the day. While specific hours aren't always advertised, Sunday mornings around 9:30 AM are recommended for the bell ringing.
Yes, the church is open on Sundays, and visiting around 9:30 AM offers the unique opportunity to hear the bells ring.
There is no regular mass held at this church. It is maintained by a few Armenian families in Chennai.
As it is a place of worship, modest attire is recommended. Avoid overly revealing clothing to show respect.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Inside, you'll find beautifully preserved historic architecture, a serene atmosphere, and the resting place of around 350 Armenians in the adjacent cemetery.
Photography of the ringing bells is not allowed, and you cannot go near the bell tower. General photography within the church premises might be permitted, but it's always best to be discreet and respectful.
Yes, stepping inside the church compound offers a stark contrast to the busy streets of George Town, providing a calm and quiet environment for reflection.
The church is maintained by a few Armenian families in Chennai.
Founded in 1712, it's one of the oldest churches in Chennai and a significant link to the city's cosmopolitan past, with a history tied to Armenian traders and settlers.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography of the ringing bells is strictly prohibited, and access to the bell tower is restricted. Be mindful and respectful when taking general photos.
The historic architecture and serene interiors offer beautiful, albeit restricted, photo opportunities. Focus on capturing the ambiance and historical details.
Similar to photography, videography of the bells is not allowed. It's best to check with the caretaker or authorities on site regarding general video recording.
Early mornings, especially on a Sunday before the crowds gather, might offer softer light and a more peaceful setting for photography.
The church's unique 18th-century architecture, the tombstones in the cemetery, and the overall serene ambiance are key photographic elements.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Be mindful of the photography restrictions, especially concerning the bells, and ensure children understand the need for quiet behavior within the church premises. The adjacent cemetery, with its tombstones, can also spark curiosity and provide a tangible connection to history.
🚶♂️ Solo Travelers & Reflective Souls
As highlighted in Reddit discussions, it's a place to 'reset and think.' The caretaker's willingness to share personal insights adds a layer of connection, making the visit more meaningful.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into Armenian Heritage in Chennai
This historic site is not only a spiritual sanctuary but also a repository of Armenian heritage. The church grounds are home to approximately 350 tombstones, each telling a silent story of the Armenian community's presence and contributions to the city. The church is maintained by a small group of Armenian families, ensuring its preservation for future generations.
While the church itself is a marvel, its location in the bustling George Town area adds to its unique charm. Navigating the busy streets to find this hidden gem is part of the adventure. Visitors often describe the experience of stepping inside as being transported to another time, a peaceful oasis amidst the urban bustle.
The Significance of the Six Bells
Many visitors are keen to witness the bells in action. The best, and perhaps only, time to hear them ring is on Sunday mornings, typically around 9:30 AM. This specific timing makes a Sunday visit particularly worthwhile for those interested in this unique auditory spectacle.
It's important to note that while you can hear the bells, photography and videography of this event are not permitted, and access to the bell tower itself is restricted. This rule is in place to preserve the sanctity and focus of the experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit