St. Hripsime

The stone church features a rectangular external structure with a cruciform interior created by four attached niches supporting the central dome.

Saint Hripsime Church was constructed in 618 by Catholicos Komitas to replace the original mausoleum built in 395 containing the remains of martyred Saint Hripsime.

The church houses the tomb of Saint Hripsime, who refused marriage proposals from both Roman Emperor Diocletian and Armenian King Tiridates III to maintain her Christian faith.

The religious complex includes an underground chamber containing early Christian burials, with guided tours available during regular visiting hours throughout the week.

Archaeological excavations revealed fragments of a Hellenistic structure beneath the church, indicating the presence of an earlier pagan temple at this location.

Location: Vagharshapat

Inception: 7 century

Architectural style: Armenian architecture

Part of: Cathedral and Churches of Echmiatsin and the Archaeological Site of Zvartnots

GPS coordinates: 40.16702,44.30964

Latest update: May 10, 2025 17:12