Fethiye Mosque / Cathedral of Ani: A Dual-Identity Architectural Heritage at Risk and the Challenges of Conservation

The historic city of Ani, on the Turkey-Armenia border, represents architectural heritage at risk. One of its most prominent monuments, the Cathedral of Ani, was constructed in the early ۱۱th century by architect Trdat under the patronage of the Bagratuni dynasty, and later converted into the Fethiye Mosque following the Seljuk conquest. It represents the first example in the Anatolia region of a church converted into a mosque, highlighting cultural and religious synthesis as well as architectural changes associated with political transformations. This study aims to analyze the relationship between architecture, religious identity, and heritage preservation in conflict-prone areas. Data were collected from historical sources, archives, and visual documentation and analyzed using a descriptive-analytical approach. Architectural analysis focused on the cruciform plan, central dome, addition of a mihrab, and removal of Christian symbols. Findings indicate that the Fethiye Mosque/Cathedral of Ani, despite relative structural stability, is exposed to natural and human-induced threats. Historical modifications and environmental hazards complicate long-term preservation. Results emphasize the need for intercultural restoration, comprehensive conservation planning, and international collaboration. The study also distinguishes the Fethiye Mosque of Ani from the Fethiye Mosque in Kars, as the latter is an Ottoman-era construction without Armenian cruciform domed origins. Conclusion: sustainable preservation of the Fethiye Mosque depends on recognizing it as shared human heritage and requires preventive and interdisciplinary conservation measures.

کلیدواژه ها:

Ani ، Fethiye Mosque ، Cathedral of Ani ، heritage at risk ، Architectural conservation ، War