Greek Church and Greek dance in Akhtala

When I learned that only three communities of national minorities were going to participate inthe annual barbeque festival in Akhtala, and one of them was the Greek community, I was very happy because I represent the Greek “Ponti” NGO. However, our happiness disappeared when after passing more than 180 kilometers we found ourselves at a very badly organized event.

The organizers were not informed that the bridge which leads to the Monastery of Akhtala was under reconstruction, and the festival participants had to walk 5 kilometers to reach the place. We were simply exhausted after such a long distance walk.

However, after the consecration ceremony of Surb Astvatsatsin (Holy Godmother) Church, the preparation and tasting of barbeque followed by joyful singing and dancing, the tired pilgrims became more lenient.

I visited Surb Astvatsatsin Church of Akhtala two years ago, and this year I even had the opportunity to film a video inside the church. I also learned that after the Pontian migration, this church became the sanctuary of the Greek immigrants from the Lori region, and particularly from Akhtala. And now there are even Greek saints and epistles carved on the walls of the church.

The Greek community was not participating in the barbeque festival but we decided to represent our community by singing and dancing.
Our performance was the last one; however, it was a great success. Even the people who were leaving, came back to watch our dance.

Arthur Khachatryan

arthurkharidis@gmail.com