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The Ani Ruins of the old medieval capital lie near the Turkiye-Armenia border, close to the village of Ocaklı, some 45 kilometers east of Kars. The city is located on a triangular site protected on its eastern side by Arpaçay ravine. Ani City was the first camp site and business center on the Silk Road toward Anatolia. Ani City's history dates back to 5,000 B.C.

Near the southern edge of Ani Ruins stands the imposing Cathedral. This is the largest and most important building in Ani, and a structure of world architectural importance.

According to various historical sources and inscriptions, it is known that building work started in the year 989 under King Smbat II (977-89) and was completed, after a halt in construction, by the year 1001 (or 1010 depending on the reading of the inscription) by order of Queen Katranideh (Catherine), the wife of King Gagik Bagratuni, Smbat's successor.

Other designations: Church of the Holy Mother of God; Surp Asdvadzadzin; Azize Meryem Katedrali; Fethiye Camii.

(Was benefited for note guidelines from Repuplic of Turkey Ministry of Culture and Tourism /www.kulturturizm.gov.tr and VirtualAni / www.virtualani.freeserve.co.uk )