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Key points
Duration: 7 Hours
No group size limit.
Book now - pay on the spot.
Private tour upon request.
Editing on request.
Free cancellation up to 7 days.
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Overview

When guests visit Armenia, they often inquire about the distinctiveness of the Armenian Apostolic Church compared to other Christian denominations worldwide. Armenia holds the distinction of being the world’s oldest Christian nation, and this unique heritage is beautifully woven into its architecture, music, literature, and fine arts. A journey to Etchmiadzin offers an unparalleled opportunity to delve deeply into the nuances of Armenian Christianity, exploring its rich history and cultural legacy.

Situated just 15 kilometers from Yerevan, the town of Etchmiadzin is home to the Etchmiadzin Cathedral, which stands as the paramount sanctuary of the Armenian Apostolic Church. In addition to this magnificent cathedral, the town boasts an array of other ancient temples, museums, the residence of the Catholicos of All Armenians, and a plethora of other ecclesiastical edifices. Often referred to as the “Armenian Vatican,” Etchmiadzin is a place of profound spiritual significance. The experience becomes all the more enchanting and awe-inspiring when timed to coincide with the celebration of the Lord’s holidays and liturgical events.

Throughout this tour, we will explore the churches nestled within Etchmiadzin, many of which hold a prestigious spot on the UNESCO World Heritage List.Во время тура мы посетим находящиеся в Эчмиадзине церкви, которые входят в список Всемирного наследия ЮНЕСКО.

Itinerary
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Departure from Yerevan.
  • Departure from Yerevan
  • Return to Yerevan
  • Travel time: 6 hours / 50 km
The first stop is the Church of St. Hripsime. This is one of the most striking examples of Armenian religious buildings, considered the first building with the cruciform planning inherent in Armenian churches.
  • Departure from Yerevan
  • Travel time: 30 min. / 20 km
Visit to the Church of St. Gayane, which belongs to the masterpieces of Aramni architecture of the 7th century. After this, we will visit the Church of St. Shoghakat, which, according to legend, was built on the site of the death of St. Mariana, one of the most pure virgins of Hripsime.
  • Departure from St. Hripsime
  • Travel time: 5 min. / 2 km
Visit to the Etchmiadzin Cathedral - the main temple of the Armenian Apostolic Church, built in the 4th century. According to legend, Christ suggested the place to build the temple to Grigor Narekatsi in a dream. The cathedral was built on the site of a pagan temple. Echmiadzin Cathedral is one of the oldest Christian buildings in the world.
  • Departure from St. Gayane
  • Travel time: 5 min. / 2 km
The Museum-Treasury of Holy Etchmiadzin, where numerous valuable things are exhibited - both church exhibits and exhibits of applied art, chalices, altar curtains, right hands, relics, vestments, crosses, etc. Saint Geghard (spear), with which Christ was pierced, part of the cross on which Christ was crucified - all this is also kept in the museum.
  • Departure from the Cathedral
  • Travel time: 5 min. / 2 km
Lunch at the national cuisine restaurant Agape, which is located on the territory of Holy Etchmiadzin in a 17th century building and is one of the ancient restaurants in this region (by reservation).
  • Departure from the Museum
  • Travel time: 5 min. / 2 km
Visit to the Zvartnots Temple, considered a masterpiece of early medieval Armenian architecture, which is included in the UNESCO World Cultural Heritage List. This is a ring structure not typical for Armenian architectural art with a unique layout and decorative art.
  • Departure from the Restaurant
  • Travel time: 5 min. / 2 km
Return to Yerevan.
  • Departure from Zvartnots
  • Travel time: 30 min. / 20 km
Price and Availability
Private tours upon request
2-3 pax
60 €
4-6 pax
41 €
7-12 pax
31 €
There are special discounts for private groups of 13 or more persons.
Book tour
What's included
    • Transportation in a comfortable vehicle.
    • Services of English-speaking guides.
    • Entrance tickets.
    • Wine tasting experience in Areni.
    • Round-trip cable car tickets.
    • Tour itinerary and tourist map of Armenia.
    • 24/7 tourist support via phone.
    • Unlimited spring water in the tour vehicle.
    • Taxes included.
    1. Lunch during the tour is available for an additional fee of $15 per person.
    2. Alcoholic drinks;
    3. Travel insurance;
    4. Tips.
Additional info
  • Upon your specific request, we are flexible in tailoring the tour itinerary, services included, and pricing to align with your preferences.
  • Our individual tours commence and conclude in Yerevan, commencing from a location that is most convenient for you.
  • Please note that the majority of museums are closed on Mondays.
  • For children under 5 years old, the tour package is complimentary.
  • For children aged 6 to 11 years old, there is a 50% discount applied to the tour package.
  • Kindly be aware that the content on this page is the intellectual property of Barev Armenia, and any reproduction, whether in full or in part, will be considered a copyright violation.

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