Echmiadzin (Hripsime, Gayane, Mother Cathedral) and Zvartnots Temple

ou will be driven to the Western part of Armenia to make your first stop at the Armenian Apostolic church of St. Echmiadzin about 12 miles (20 kilometers) from Yerevan. 

Learn about the origins of the Cathedral of Echmiadzin, which was founded at the beginning of the fourth century and is considered one of the oldest churches in the world. According to legend, the church was built in a place where an apparition of Jesus Christ was seen to the religious leader Gregory the Illuminator in a dream. The interior of the church is covered with frescoes created by the Hovnatanyan family. 

Head next to the St. Hripsime church, one of the most famous ecclesiastical buildings in Echmiadzin. Learn how the church is a perfect example of Armenia’s cross-cupola churches. You’ll also find the tomb of the Christian martyr Virgin Hripsime is in the church sacristy. 

Not far from the Echmiadzin Cathedral, against the background of the white peaks of Ararat, you will be able to see the silhouette of the cupola of St. Gayane church. This church was built in the 7th century and was designed in the domed-basilica style. According to legend this St. Gayane was constructed over the tomb of the Virgin Gayane, who was martyred for preaching Christianity. 

Make the final stop of your excursion at Zvartnot temple, an example of the craftsmanship and creativity of Armenia's 7th century architects. Having been built on several columns, the original structure only survived until the 10th century, but it was excavated and reconstructed at the beginning of the 20th century. 

After your visit to Zvartnot, return to central Yerevan, where your tour ends.