Armenian Church
About Armenian Church
The Armenian Church of the Holy Resurrection was built in 1781 in Armanitola, the neighbourhood named after the Armenian traders who settled in Dhaka in the Mughal and early British periods. They dealt in jute, leather and other goods, and for a time were among the city’s wealthiest families.
The church is a simple, whitewashed building with arched doors and windows, set in a walled garden. Around it lies a graveyard with old tombstones carved in Armenian and English, many recording merchants and their families. The original clock tower was lost in an earthquake in the late 19th century.
The Armenian community has almost disappeared, and the church is now cared for by a small number of people. Its quiet garden feels a world away from the busy streets outside, and the tombstones tell a little-known chapter of the city’s history.
It is a few minutes’ walk from the Star Mosque, and we often visit both on private Old Dhaka tours with a local guide.
Things to do
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Visit the church
Step inside the simple 18th-century church when the caretaker opens it.
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Read the old tombstones
Walk among graves carved in Armenian and English that record the merchant families of old Dhaka.
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Learn about Armanitola
Hear how Armenian traders shaped this corner of the city and gave it its name.
Getting there
From central Dhaka: 45 minutes to over an hour by car from Gulshan or Banani, then on foot or by rickshaw through the lanes of Armanitola.
Where to stay
Stay in Gulshan, Banani or central Dhaka and combine the church with other Old Dhaka sights on a day trip.
Tours that visit Armenian Church
Holiday Tours
Bangladesh Cultural and Heritage Discovery Tour
from $800 per person
Day Tours
Dhaka City Day Tour
from $50 per person
Short Tours
Dhaka, Barisal & Sundarbans Heritage Tour
from $300 per person
Holiday Tours
Explore the Natural Beauty of Bangladesh
Price on request
Holiday Tours
Ten Days Across Bangladesh
from $800 per person
Short Tours
The Best of Bangladesh: City, Tea & Heritage Tour
from $500 per person
Questions
Is the Armenian Church open to visitors?
Usually yes, but opening times are informal and depend on the caretaker. Going with a guide who knows the routine helps.
When was the Armenian Church built?
In 1781, by the Armenian community of Dhaka.
How long does a visit take?
About 30 to 45 minutes, including the graveyard.
What is nearby?
The Star Mosque is a few minutes’ walk away, and Ahsan Manzil and Sadarghat are a short ride towards the river.