Echmiadzin Monastery, Vagharshapat

Visit the birthplace of Christianity in Armenia at Echmiadzin Monastery, a World Heritage-listed cathedral built by the country's patron saint. Gregory the Illuminator completed the Christian Apostolic cathedral in 303, symbolizing Armenia's transformation from a predominantly pagan country to a Christian one. Believed to be the oldest cathedral in the world, it remains active as the headquarters of the Apostolic Church. Admire the building's austere facade, adorned with several Greek inscriptions, and step inside to view the 18th-century frescoes that decorate the interior walls. With our custom trip planner, Vagharshapat attractions like Echmiadzin Monastery can be center stage of your vacation plans, and you can find out about other attractions like it, unlike it, near it, and miles away.