Armenian Information
Cathedral of Echmiadzin.
Visit the Echmiadzin
Cathedral, the most ancient Christian temple in Armenia, and the Holy
See and official residence of the Catholics of all Armenians. According
to tradition, St. Gregory the Illuminator saw a vision of the "Only
Begotten" descend from heaven, and show the spot where the church
should be erected. In 303 AD, two years after Christianity was declared
the state Religion, the Mother church of the Holy See was completed. It
was rebuilt in the 480s. Through the centuries there have been construction
and additions, and the main dome was rebuilt in 1627. Nagash Ovnatan painted
the interior murals in 1720. The church is surrounded by gardens, were
you will see examples of "khachkar"s, or stone crosses. You
will visit the underground site of the pagan temple upon which the present
cathedral stands. You will also visit the Museum, "Gandzaran",
which houses exquisite church attire embroidered with gold and pearls,
as well as crosses and all kinds of ritual vessels of silver, gold, ivory,
adorned with filigree work and jewels, with most items dating back to
the 17th through 19th centuries (the tour of the museum is available every
day except Sunday). St. Gayane and St. Hripsime Churches: The St. Gayane
church is built in the City of Echmiadzin, a short walk from the Cathedral.
Built in 630 (according to a chronicle), they are the two oldest churches
in Armenia. St. Hripsime is a beautiful example of Armenian architecture
of the classical period.
