Group tour:Echmiadzin (Mother Cathedral, Hripsime, Gayane), Zvartnots
Echmiadzin Mother Cathedral, St. Hripsime Church, St. Gayane Church, Zvartnots Temple
1. Echmiadzin Mother Cathedral
50-60 min
The center of Armenian Apostolic church – St. Echmiadzin is located 20 km far from Yerevan. The Cathedral of Echmiadzin was founded at the beginning of the fourth century and is one of the oldest churches in the world. According to the legend, the church was built in the place where apparition of Jesus Christ was seen to Gregory The Illuminator in the dream. The interior of the church is covered with frescoes, created by Hovnatanyan family. The residence of the Catholicos and the Theological Academy are situated near the Cathedral. The site is included in UNESCO World Cultural Heritage List.
2. St. Hripsime Church
20-30 min
St. Hripsime church is one of the famous ecclesiastical buildings in the city of Echmiadzin. This is the developed and perfect example of cross-cupola churches in Armenia. The church is notable with its architectural simplicity and loftiness. The tomb of the Christian martyr Virgin Hripsime is in the sacristy of the church. The site is included in UNESCO World Cultural Heritage List.
3. St. Gayane Church
20-30 min
Not far from the Echmiadzin Cathedral, against the background of white peaks of Ararat, one can see the silhouette of the cupola of St. Gayane church. It was built in the 7th century and belongs to the domed-basilica style. According to the legend, this church was constructed over the tomb of Virgin Gayane, who had been martyred for preaching Christianity. The site is included in UNESCO World Cultural Heritage List.
4. Zvartnots Temple
30-40 min
This marvelous temple is a result of skillfulness and brave creativity of Armenian architects of the 7th century. Having been built on several columns, it was able to survive only till the 10th century. When in the beginning of the 20th century this site was being excavated, many specialists could hardly accept its reconstruction model, designed by famous Armenian architect Toros Toramanyan, as it was difficult to believe, that such a huge and complicated construction could have been built those days, and amazingly at that time one of the bas-relieves of St. Chapelle church in Paris came to prove Toramanyan's version; the bas-relief depicts Zvartnots temple with Noah's Ark and it looks like the model, represented by the architect. The site is included in UNESCO Cultural World Heritage List.
Inclusions
- Professional guide: ENG + RUS consecutively
- Air-conditioned vehicles
- Bottled water & pastries
- Admission tickets
- Wi-Fi in the vehicles
- Vehicle & passengers insurance
Exclusions
- Lunch stop
- Hotel drop-off after return to Yerevan
Highlights
- Explore incredible UNESCO World Cultural Heritage sites
- See the very first Christian cathedral in the World
- On Sundays there is a chance to participate in liturgy
Frequently Asked Questions
Will I have the chance to attend liturgy in the church of Echmiadzin?
Please, note that the liturgy is held only on Sundays. Therefore, if you book this tour for that day, you will have the opportunity to attend the service.
Can I visit "Treasures of Echmiadzin" museum during this tour?
You can, indeed, visit the "Treasures of Echmiadzin" museum during your time at the Mother Cathedral, but, please, note that the entry ticket is not included in the price of our tour and is to be purchased on the spot.
What is the group size for this tour?
The group size varies, but typically ranges up to 48 participants.
Are there any clothing requirements or recommendations for this tour?
We recommend wearing comfortable sports shoes and dressing in weather-appropriate clothing for the tour; taking a jacket or coat is always a wise choice. Weather conditions in the regions can be significantly cooler than in Yerevan. Modest clothing is requested of women during visits to churches and monasteries.
Booking conditions
Cancellation & modification
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