Background

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.

4.8
A question is required

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.

A brief summary to Khor Virap Monastery

  • near the village of, H11, Pokr Vedi, 0612, AM
  • +37493533685

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning for the best views of Mount Ararat, as the weather is often clearer then.
  • Dress respectfully when visiting the monastery; cover shoulders and knees.
  • Take the opportunity to descend into the pit where St. Gregory the Illuminator was imprisoned.
  • Combine your visit with other nearby attractions such as Noravank Monastery or the Areni wine region.
  • Be aware that the climb down to the pit can be challenging due to the steep and narrow staircase.
widget icon

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.

Unlock the Best of Khor Virap Monastery

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

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.

Popular Experiences near Khor Virap Monastery

Popular Hotels near Khor Virap Monastery

Select Currency