Embark on a private tour of Echmiadzin, the spiritual center of Armenia. Explore ancient churches, the iconic Echmiadzin Mother Cathedral, and the fascinating ‘Treasures of Echmiadzin’ museum.
- Saint Hripsime Church - 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.
- Saint Gayane Church - 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.
- Echmiadzin Monastery - 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. Starting from the end of 2018 year till the present day reconstruction works are being carried out, thus the visit of Mother Cathedral currently is foreseen only from outside. The site is included in UNESCO World Cultural Heritage List.
- Zvartnots Temple - 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.
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Khor Virap - Nestled at the foothills of the majestic Mount Ararat, Khor Virap Monastery stands as a timeless testament to Armenia’s rich spiritual heritage and historical significance. Its name, translating to “deep pit”, alludes to the remarkable tale of Saint Gregory the Illuminator, who was imprisoned in a dark pit here for 13 years before miraculously curing King Tiridates III of a grave illness.
Today, visitors are drawn not only to its religious importance but also to the breathtaking beauty of its location. Surrounded by rolling hills and vineyards, with the snow-capped peak of Mount Ararat looming majestically in the distance, Khor Virap offers an unparalleled setting for reflection and contemplation.
- Private transportation
- On-board WiFi
- Bottled water
- In-vehicle air conditioning
- All fees and/or taxes
- On-board restrooms
This exclusive tour offers a chance to explore Echmiadzin, Armenia’s religious heart, which is recognized as a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site. The journey begins with visits to St. Hripsime and St. Gayane churches, erected to commemorate Christian martyrs who fled Rome under the leadership of their abbess Gayane. Then, you will arrive at the main attraction, the Echmiadzin Mother Cathedral. Known as the primary cathedral of the Armenian Apostolic Church, it holds the distinction of being the first Christian cathedral in the world. Currently undergoing restoration, sadly, the cathedral can only be admired from the exterior. A short distance from the Cathedral, you will be greeted by the impressive ‘Treasures of Echmiadzin’ museum. Lastly, you’ll visit the 7th-century Zvartnots temple, one of the era’s tallest structures.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
