“Cutting Oil” Population: negligible
Of all the forgotten Armenian churches scattered around the villages near Ani perhaps the most impressive is the dramatic church of Karmır Vank (Red Monastery) in a farmyard in the village of Yağkesen.
Not only does this church still retain its dome but it was built out of wonderful red and black chequerwork, hence its Turkish name, the Kızıl Kilise (Red Church).
Originally built in 1228, the church was restored in 1887, hence its relatively good condition.
Sleeping
Kars offers the best choice of places to stay in the region .
Transport info
There is no pubic transport to Yağkesen so without your own car you will need to sign up with a taxi driver in Kars, agreeing a price for the return trip in advance. You might like to visit the other sites at Oğuzlu, Kozluca and Mağazbert Kalesi on the same trip.
