A fire broke out in the 18th century Saint Nshan Armenian Apostolic Church in Tbilisi on January 9, causing a column supporting the already damaged dome to topple.

The cause of the blaze has yet to be confirmed but suspicions point to the possibility that people squatting on church grounds may have carelessly lit a fire.

Saint Nshan, built in 1703, was used as a book depository during the Soviet era. It was destroyed by a 2002 fire.

Fire fighters, forced to use water to put out both blazes, have only increased the damage to the church.

The Georgian Diocese of the Armenian Apostolic Church has petitioned the Tbilisi Municipality for funds to implement much needed renovation to the church.