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Local know-how to help you travel smarter and make the most of every moment.
Khor Virap: Armenia's Sacred Monastery with Ararat Views
Discover Armenia's sacred Khor Virap Monastery, a historic pilgrimage site with stunning views of Mount Ararat and a deep connection to Christianity.
Khor Virap, meaning 'deep dungeon,' is a historic Armenian monastery and pilgrimage site. It's famed for its stunning views of Mount Ararat and its historical significance as the site where St. Gregory the Illuminator was imprisoned for 13 years before converting Armenia to Christianity in 301 AD, making it the first Christian nation.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to Khor Virap Monastery
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
near the village of, H11, Pokr Vedi, 0612, AM
Discover more about Khor Virap Monastery
Khor Virap Monastery, located near the village of Pokr Vedi, is one of Armenia's most visited religious sites. The monastery's history is deeply intertwined with the story of Armenia's conversion to Christianity. In the late 3rd century, St. Gregory the Illuminator was imprisoned here for 13 years by King Tiridates III for preaching Christianity. The name 'Khor Virap' translates to 'deep dungeon' in Armenian, referring to the pit where Gregory was held.After Gregory miraculously cured King Tiridates of an illness, the king converted to Christianity and declared it the state religion in 301 AD. This pivotal event makes Armenia the first nation to officially adopt Christianity. Today, pilgrims and tourists can descend into the pit where St. Gregory was imprisoned, located within the St. Gevorg Chapel.The monastery complex includes the St. Astvatsatsin Church (Holy Mother of God), built in the 17th century, offering a stunning example of Armenian medieval architecture. The site also features fortified walls and a courtyard. Khor Virap's location in the Ararat Valley provides breathtaking views of Mount Ararat, making it a popular spot for photography and reflection. The monastery embodies the Armenian people's connection to their historical homeland and the biblical Mount Ararat.
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Getting There
Public Transport
From Yerevan, take the metro to Sasuntsi Davit Train Station. Behind the station, find the Intertown Bus Station and look for a minibus (marshrutka) to Ararat. The bus ride to Ararat costs approximately 500 AMD. From Ararat, you can take a taxi to Khor Virap for around 4500 AMD, or take marshrutka #467 which goes to Khor Virap at 9:00, 14:00, and 18:00 for 250 AMD. Alternatively, you can walk the remaining 1.5 kilometers to the monastery.
Taxi
Taxis are readily available in Yerevan. A taxi ride directly to Khor Virap will take approximately 40-60 minutes, depending on traffic. Expect to pay around 4500 AMD for the trip. There is no parking fee at the monastery.
Driving
From Yerevan, head south on the E117 highway for approximately 30 kilometers. Then, take the H11 road directly to Khor Virap Monastery. The drive takes around 40-60 minutes, depending on traffic. There is no fee for parking at the monastery.
A brief summary to Khor Virap Monastery
Use Khor Virap Monastery as your starting point for nearby food, family ideas, nightlife, and more local discoveries.
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