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Saint Gregory The Illuminator Cathedral: Yerevan's Modern Spiritual Heart

A modern architectural marvel and spiritual center in Yerevan, commemorating Armenia's Christian heritage.

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The Saint Gregory the Illuminator Cathedral, consecrated in 2001, is the largest cathedral of the Armenian Apostolic Church, commemorating Armenia's adoption of Christianity in 301 AD. A towering symbol of faith, it blends traditional Armenian architecture with modern design, offering visitors a serene and awe-inspiring experience.

A brief summary to Saint Gregory The Illuminator Cathedral

  • 5GC8+VV9, Yervand Kochar St, Yerevan, Kentron, AM
  • +37410543332
  • Monday 9 am-8 pm
  • Tuesday 9 am-8 pm
  • Wednesday 9 am-8 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-8 pm
  • Friday 9 am-8 pm
  • Saturday 9 am-8 pm
  • Sunday 9 am-8 pm

Local tips

  • Dress respectfully when visiting; shoulders and knees should be covered.
  • Visit during sunset for stunning views of the cathedral bathed in golden light.
  • Check the schedule for religious ceremonies to witness Armenian traditions.
  • Explore the surrounding park for peaceful reflection and photo opportunities.
  • Take the Yerevan Metro to Zoravar Andranik Station for convenient access.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Republic Square, walk east along Tigran Mets Avenue. Continue for approximately 1.6 km. The cathedral will be visible on your left, adjacent to the General Andranik metro station. The walk is mostly flat and should take around 20 minutes. No costs are associated with this option.

  • Public Transport

    From Yerevan city center, take the Yerevan Metro to Zoravar Andranik station. The cathedral is a 5-minute walk from the station. Alternatively, several bus routes stop near the cathedral. A single metro or bus ride costs 100 AMD. As of January 1, 2025, a daily travel pass costs 880-900 AMD.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Yerevan. Use a ride-hailing app like GG Taxi or Yandex Taxi to book a cab. A short taxi ride from the city center to the cathedral will cost approximately 600-1100 AMD. The base fare is 600 AMD, with an additional 100 AMD per kilometer. Be sure the driver uses the meter to avoid overcharging.

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Discover more about Saint Gregory The Illuminator Cathedral

Saint Gregory the Illuminator Cathedral, also known as the Yerevan Cathedral, is a relatively new yet profoundly significant landmark in Yerevan, Armenia. Consecrated in 2001, it stands as the largest cathedral of the Armenian Apostolic Church and one of the largest religious structures in the South Caucasus. The cathedral commemorates the 1700th anniversary of Armenia's proclamation of Christianity as a state religion in 301 AD, a pivotal moment attributed to Saint Gregory the Illuminator. The cathedral complex, designed by architect Stepan Kurkchyan, seamlessly blends traditional Armenian architectural elements with a contemporary aesthetic. Built from orange-colored tufa stones, the complex comprises three churches: the main Cathedral, which seats 1,700, and the Chapels of Saint Tiridates the King and Saint Ashkhen the Queen, each accommodating 150 people. These royal figures were instrumental in Armenia's conversion to Christianity. The complex also includes a belfry tower and a courtyard. Inside, the cathedral boasts a serene and sacred atmosphere, adorned with stunning frescoes and impressive chandeliers. It houses relics of Saint Gregory the Illuminator, brought from Naples, Italy. The cathedral's construction was made possible through donations from various benefactors, including Richard Alexander Manoogian and Louise Manoogian Simone, Nazar and Artemis Nazarian, Kevork and Linda Kevorkian, and Eduardo Eurnekian. Located in the Kentron District, adjacent to the General Andranik metro station, the cathedral is easily accessible and visible from many parts of Yerevan. It serves not only as a place of worship but also as a cultural icon, hosting national religious ceremonies and attracting pilgrims and tourists alike.

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