Cathedral and Churches of Echmiatsin and the archaeological remains at Zvartnots are World Heritage Sites in Armenia. They provide a glimpse into the evolution of the architecture of Armenian churches. It is from these medieval churches that the central-domed, cross-hall design of Armenian churches was derived, influencing the architectural style of the region.
The cathedral and churches of Echmiatsin and the archaeological site of Zvartnots were recognised as UNESCO World Heritage Site, during the 24th session of the World Heritage Committee, which convened from 24 November to 2 December, 2000, in Cairns, Australia. The core zone of the heritage property covers an area of 74.3 hectares.
What to See in Cathedral and Churches of Echmiatsin and the Archaeological Site of Zvartnots
In Echmiatsin
Cathedral of Echmiatsin is a major tourist attraction. It was built in 301 AD by St Gregory the Illuminator, and has been rebuilt and expanded several times in the next 1,700 years. It is the seat of the Catholicos of all Armenians, which is the head of the Holy Armenian Apostolic Church. Within a short distance away are two more churches that are worth visiting: St. Hripsime Cathedral and St. Gayane Church.
St. Hripsime Church is another beautiful early Christian church. It was built in the 7th century, with soaring ceilings and spacious interior.
St. Gayane Church was built to honor one of the Christian virgins killed by the Armenian king.
In Zvartnots
Zvartnots Cathedral is the remains of a 7th century Armenian church. It was built by the Catholicos Nerses the Builder, between 641 and 653 AD, when Armenia was under Byzantine control. It is said to have collapsed some time in the 10th century
Location
Echmiatsin, also written Echmiadzin and Etchmiadzin, is the largest city in Armavir Province, central Armenia, and the 4th largest in the country. The population is around 53,000. The tourist sights are accessible on foot within the city, including the Cathedral of Echmiatsin.
Zvartnots is located about 10 km west of Yerevan, and half way to Echmiatsin. Zvartnots Catheral, the main archaeological site, is a 7th-century Armenian church near the Yerevan International Airport.
World Heritage Site Inscription Details
Location: N 40 09 33 E 44 17 42
Inscription Year:
Type of Site: Cultural Inscription Criteria: II, III
Echmiatsin is actually quite near Yerevan, the capital of Armenia. You should base your trip in Yerevan, and then make arrangements for visiting the sights in Armenia. There will be more tour packages and options to choose from in Yerevan, according to the amount of time you have in your hands.
Here's a comprehensive list of Hotels in Yerevan with online booking facilities. Booking is provided by HostelBookers, so there is no booking fee involved.
Getting there
Echmiatsin and Zvartnots are to the west of Yerevan, the capital of Armenia.
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