Overview
Whilst travelling to Armenia, you may just be interested in seeing the world’s first Christian Cathedral church. Echmiadzin is considered to be the spiritual center of all Armenians all over the world! The word itself means a place where “the only begotten son of the God descended”.
Why travelers book this
What's Included
- WiFi on board
- Air-conditioned vehicle
- Bottled water
- Hotel Pick up and Drop off
What's Not Included
- Guide Services (Upon Request)
- Lunch (upon request)
- Entrance tickets
Meeting & Pickup
Meeting point, pickup options and start time are confirmed on Viator before checkout.
Itinerary
Stop 1
St. Hripsime church, which was built on the sepulcher of a Christian nun Hripsime who fled from the Roman Empire and was killed in Armenia. This amazing building has stood upright from the day of its construction since 618 A.D, making it one of the oldest standing churches in the world.
Stop 2
5 minutes drive away will be the next stop: the 7th century church of St. Gayane. Gayane was the nanny of Hripsime, and shared Hripsime’s tragic fate.
Stop 3
You will be able to observe the first world’s first Christian Cathedral – the Holy Ejmiatsin, built in 301-304. According to the legend, Jesus Christ descended on the same spot where the Dissention Altar stands today, where Gregory the Illuminator ordered to build the church. The cathedral is a symbol of Armenian national identity and heritage, reflecting the country's deep-rooted Christian tradition.
Stop 4
Zvartnots Cathedral, now in ruins, is a 7th-century centrally planned aisled tetraconch type Armenian cathedral built by the order of Catholicos Nerses the Builder from 643-652. According to legend, the name "Zvartnots" means "celestial angels," inspired by the belief that angels once watched over the temple. It is included in the UNESCO heritage list. In fact, all of the churches included in the tour, are listed on the UNESCO World’s Cultural Heritage Sites.
Important Information
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Specialized infant seats are available
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Children must be accompanied by an adult