The temple of Taba-Yerda, located in Ingushetia on the territory of the Dzhirakh-Assinsky Museum-Reserve, is considered one of the oldest Christian churches in Russia. Built in the eighth century, it served as a center of religious and social events. In pagan times, ritual ceremonies and court hearings were held in the temple.
The temple of Taba Yerda has a rectangular shape. Its dimensions are 17 by 7.5 meters. The walls, whose thickness ranges from 80 centimeters to a meter, are built of heterogeneous materials. Inside the temple is divided by three high arches.
The uniqueness of the structure is manifested in the sculptural composition on the western facade. This horseshoe-shaped arch contains relief figures, including a figure holding a cross, and another with floors of clothing and legs. Above it stands an ornamented slab with a stone model of a cruciform church.
The temple of Taba-Yerda has been described by Russian and foreign scientists for more than two hundred years. It is believed that this historical site was first discovered by quartermaster Stedor in 1787. In recent years, some parts of the temple have been repaired and restored.