• Khor Virap - Situated about an hour’s drive from Yerevan, the Khor Virap monastery offers a breathtaking view of Armenia’s iconic symbol, the majestic Ararat. “Khor Virap” means “deep dungeon,” and it was constructed on the site of the former royal prison at the historical location of Artashat. This prison famously held Gregory the Illuminator, the first Armenian Catholicos, for 13 years.
• Saint Hripsime Church - The St. Hripsime church, built on the tomb of the Christian nun Hripsime who escaped the Roman Empire and was martyred in Armenia, is a remarkable structure that has stood since its construction in 618 A.D., making it one of the oldest surviving churches in the world.
• Saint Gayane Church - Just a five-minute drive away is the next destination: the 7th-century church of St. Gayane. Gayane was Hripsime’s caretaker and shared in her tragic fate.
• Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin - Armenian Apostolic Church (Armenian Orthodox Church) - Visitors can witness the world’s first Christian Cathedral, the Holy Ejmiatsin, built between 301-304.

According to legend, Jesus Christ descended at the location where the Dissention Altar now stands, prompting Gregory the Illuminator to commission the church’s construction.

The cathedral is a symbol of Armenian national identity and heritage, showcasing the country’s profound Christian tradition.

• Zvartnots Temple - The Zvartnots Cathedral, now in ruins, is a 7th-century centrally planned aisled tetraconch type Armenian cathedral, constructed by Catholicos Nerses the Builder from 643-652.

Legend has it that the name “Zvartnots” means “celestial angels,” inspired by the belief that angels once watched over the temple.

It is part of the UNESCO heritage list. In fact, all the churches included in the tour are listed as UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Sites.

• On-board WiFi
• In-vehicle air conditioning
• Bottled water
• Hotel Pick up and Drop off

• Lunch (upon request)
• Professional guide (upon request)
• Entrance Tickets

Khor Virap Monastery provides stunning views of the legendary Mt. Ararat. This monastery is of great religious and historical significance, being the site where Saint Gregory the Illuminator was imprisoned and where Christianity began in Armenia. Echmiadzin Cathedral, meaning “The descent of the Only Begotten,” serves as the heart of the Armenian Apostolic Church. Originally constructed in the early 3rd century BC, it is often cited as the oldest official Christian church in the world. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit and explore this extraordinary and unique location! The Church of St. Hripsime is dedicated to one of the 40 virgins who fled the Roman Empire. Remarkably preserved since its construction, the church is celebrated for its architecture, regarded as a masterpiece of classical Armenian design, and has inspired many other Armenian churches.

• Children must be accompanied by an adult
• Possible languages: English, Russian. In case the tour is organized in other language, changes of the prices are possible.

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.