Spitak: Metal Church
Metal Church, Spitak, Lori Region, Republic of Armenia © Onnik Krikorian / Oneworld Multimedia, 2000
While speaking to an architecture student about church design this week, I mentioned the metal church erected on a hill on the approach to Spitak, the epicenter of the tragic 1988 Armenian Earthquake. Because she hadn’t heard about this unique church constructed out of sheet metal as it was the only material available in the aftermath of the natural disaster I though to it appropiate to post a photo taken five years ago.
Incidently, Spitak is now almost completely rebuilt, although the situation in Armenia’ second largest city, Gyumri, that was also devastated by the earthquake, is still quite dire for many. I visited Gyumri in November for Hetq to photograph some scenes I posted here and here.
Talking of Gyumri, Bambir, a young rock band that hails from the city are performing again at Yerevan’s Stop Club tonight. The older Bambir, of course, released an album dedicated to the Armenian Earthquake, but tonight will be more festive. Bambir the younger will instead be celebrating the birthday of their flautist. I hope to post some photos when I return home sometime after midnight.
Happy 22nd, Arik.
Update: Arik’s Birthday Bash
Narek, Arik’s Birthday Bash, Stop Club, Yerevan, Republic of Armenia © Onnik Krikorian / Hetq Online
Arik & Narek, Arik’s Birthday Bash, Stop Club, Yerevan, Republic of Armenia © Onnik Krikorian / Hetq Online
Arik, Arik’s Birthday Bash, Stop Club, Yerevan, Republic of Armenia © Onnik Krikorian / Hetq Online
Ed (MDP) & Ripa, Arik’s Birthday Bash, Stop Club, Yerevan, Republic of Armenia © Onnik Krikorian / Hetq Online
Misha, Arik’s Birthday Bash, Stop Club, Yerevan, Republic of Armenia © Onnik Krikorian / Hetq Online
Happy Birthday Arik!!!
One of the reasons for that church being constructed out of sheet metal was the speed of construction.
Comment by nazarian — December 28, 2005 @ 1:41 pm