Etchmiadzin Cathedral

Etchmiadzin Cathedral is an Apostolic church in Vagharshapat, Armenia, and part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The building has four rounded chapels arranged around a central space, with a domed roof structure reaching 27 meters (89 feet) in height.

The original structure was built in 303 on the foundations of a pagan temple. After damage from Persian attacks in the 5th century, the church was rebuilt in 484.

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The grounds are open daily and visitors can enter the complex freely. Regular worship services take place inside, and guests are asked to observe ongoing ceremonies quietly.

The interior walls carry frescoes from the 17th century that combine Armenian and Persian artistic styles. These paintings show the cultural exchange of that time.

Location: Vagharshapat

Inception: 303

Founders: Gregory the Illuminator

Architectural style: Armenian architecture

Height: 27 m

Length: 29 m

Width: 23 m

Part of: Cathedral and Churches of Echmiatsin and the Archaeological Site of Zvartnots, Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin

Address: 576R+PGF, Vagharshapat, Armenia

Opening Hours: Monday-Friday 07:00-20:00; Saturday 07:00-18:00; Sunday 07:00-20:00

Phone: +37410517100

Website: https://armenianchurch.org

GPS coordinates: 40.16186,44.29100

Latest update: December 12, 2025 17:43