Cathedral and Churches of Echmiatsin and the Archaeological Site of Zvartnots

The Cathedral and Churches of Echmiatsin form a religious complex in Armavir Province featuring central domed structures with polygonal apses. The nearby archaeological site of Zvartnots contains the remains of a circular church from the 7th century.

The Cathedral was built around 301 to 303 CE on the site of a former pagan temple, marking where Armenia adopted Christianity as its state religion. Zvartnots was built later in the 7th century and was destroyed by an earthquake, leaving only archaeological remains.

The Cathedral of Echmiatsin serves as the spiritual center of the Armenian Apostolic Church and the residence of the Catholicos. Pilgrims visit to participate in religious services and experience one of Christianity's most important sites.

The site is roughly 20 km from Yerevan and can be reached by taxi along the main highway, which passes near the international airport. Both locations can be visited in a single day since they are in the same region.

The Cathedral's interior preserves frescoes painted by Armenian artist Naghash Hovnatan between 1712 and 1721. These religious artworks are rare examples of Armenian painting from that period.