Archangel Church in Aydın faces destruction due to neglect

The 166-year-old Archangel (Taxiarkhea) Church in the Mursallı neighborhood of Germencik, Aydın, is at risk of collapsing due to lack of maintenance and damage from treasure hunters. Built in Greek architecture, the structure features unique frescoes of Archangel Michael, which are currently fading due to moisture and neglect.

Structural inspections have revealed deep cracks in the main load-bearing walls and collapses in the roof. Local residents report that the deteriorating state of the building poses a safety risk and represents a significant loss of historical heritage. The area holds historical importance as a settlement for migrants who arrived from Grebene, Greece, following the Lausanne Population Exchange in 1923.

Community members are calling for the church to be restored and converted into an Exchange Museum. They believe such a project would preserve the region's history for future generations and boost local faith-based tourism, attracting both domestic and international visitors.