Catharine Church

The Church of St. Catharine, known as the "Catherine Convent" (Deir-e Catherine), stands in the Chaharsu district of New Julfa, on Khaqani Street, Ramin Alley, in the city of Isfahan. It was built during the Safavid era, specifically in 1623 CE, by Khajeh Yaghiazar Lazarian, one of the prominent merchants of Julfa, and is regarded as the first convent in Iran built exclusively for nuns. During its years of activity, the Catharine Church housed up to 32 nuns, and after the death of the last nun in 1954, the church ceased to operate. On 10 Khordad 1382 (Solar Hijri), it was added to the list of Iran's National Heritage sites under registration number 9090.

Built of mud brick and fired brick, the building is a striking example of the fusion of Armenian and Iranian architecture. The exterior of the church is decorated with motifs drawn from Iranian art, while the interior follows a structure rooted in traditional Armenian architecture. The church plan is a rectangle laid out on an east–west axis, with two domes: one arched and the other larger, with eight skylights. The interior is divided into three connected sections, with the altar in the east and a wooden bell tower known as the "Kuchnak" in the west. The complex was originally built as a convent for nuns and included various sections such as a library, classrooms, living cells, a dining hall and a kitchen.

While the convent was active, its interior walls were decorated with images of the first nuns, such as Royisana, Takuhi and Hripsime. According to historical sources, around 33 nuns lived here in 1702 CE, and in total nearly 200 nuns resided in the convent over four centuries. With the death of Mother Elizabeth Israelian, the last nun, in 1954, the convent was converted into a church. Afterwards, some of its spaces were used for social activities, such as a nursery for orphaned children.

Getting to the Catharine Church by taxi or public transport is very easy in the New Julfa district, and visitors will enjoy a cultural and historical experience in the heart of the old neighbourhood. The church is usually not open to the general public, and entry is possible only as part of organised tours, such as visits supervised by the Armenian Diocese. The best time to visit is spring and autumn, when Isfahan's weather is mild and pleasant. By keeping the site clean, respecting its religious atmosphere and preserving its historical authenticity, visitors can enjoy a peaceful, educational and rewarding experience at this historic building.