Etchmiadzin

Etchmiadzin Cathedral

The Mother Cathedral of Holy Ejmiatsin is the most important center of Armenian Apostolic Church, and is a wonderful example of early Christian Armenian Churches, some architectural solution of which became a base of many Armenian churches.  The temple was built in the beginning of 4th century, right after when Christianity was adopted as a state religion in Armenia, it was built in the place of pagan temple (There are ruins of the temple under the chapel). The Mother Cathedral of Holy Ejmiatsin was built by the first patriarch – Saint Gregory the Illuminator. When he was lost in thoughts duringa lonely night, he had a wonderful vision: son of the God descended from Heaven and showed the place where the church should have been built.  St. Gregory the Illuminator and king Trdat’s family lead people to the place where Jesus descended and built the Mother Cathedral of Holy Ejmiatsin. Saint Ejmiatsin is also known as “illuminated with light”, because it was built not by a random architect, but by a saint architect, who illuminated the church with his light and outlined the new church. During excavations during the 5th century there were also found clay cookers, which still had coal inside. It is important to note that the discovered backbone was situated on the ancient altar, which symbolizes the victory of Christianity againts paganism.

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Saint Gayane Church

St. Gayane church is a domed basilica type church, which is situated in Ejmiatsin, which is one of the most important sacred cities in Armenia, it is also a monument of Armenian beautiful architecture. This wonderful building without any special decorative elements. St. Gayane church is a domed basilica type church. It has a classic and simple style.  It was built approximately in 630, instead of a small chapel on the grave of Virgin Gayane. All the elements of the church are very harmonious. ։ St. Gayane’s tombstone is also situated in the church.

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Saint Hripsime Church

Saint Hripsime is an important Armenian church, which is situated in Ejmiatsin. It is also included in UNESCO world heritage. The church was founded in 618 by Komitas A Aghetsi catholicos in the place where Saint Hripsime was buried. This church is one of the masterpieces of Armenian architecture. This church belongs to the central cross-type churches, with simple and majestic architecture. The tomb of Saint Hripsime is located underneath the church. 

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Photo Gallery

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