Yereruyk Basilica, Early Christian basilica in Anipemza, Armenia
Yereruyk Basilica is an early Christian church in Anipemza with three naves supported by six pillars made of orange tufa stone. The structure sits on an elevated platform near the Akhurian River and shows the craftsmanship of early Armenian builders.
The basilica was built between the 4th and 6th centuries, replacing an earlier pagan altar site. It stands as one of the oldest Christian monuments in Armenia and reflects the rapid spread of Christianity across the region during that period.
The name comes from the Armenian word "yereral", describing a visual illusion of movement created by the columns when seen from a distance. This effect made the place memorable for early visitors and shaped how people experienced the structure.
The building is partially deteriorated and requires careful walking, especially on uneven stone surfaces and around the pillars. Guided tours from April through November offer the best way to explore this site with proper information.
Excavations in 2011 uncovered a burial ground with numerous infant remains, pointing to specific early Christian burial practices. This evidence reveals important rituals from that era that are rarely documented at other sites.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
