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Khor Virap: Armenia's Sacred Monastery with Ararat Views

Discover Armenia's spiritual heart at Khor Virap Monastery, with stunning views of Mount Ararat and a rich history of faith.

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Khor Virap, meaning 'deep dungeon,' is a historic Armenian monastery. It is 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.

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 chance to capture clear views of Mount Ararat.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking on uneven surfaces and descending into the pit.
  • Dress respectfully when entering the church (shoulders and knees covered).
  • Bring water, especially during the summer months, as it can get hot.
  • Combine your visit with other nearby attractions like Noravank Monastery or the Areni wine region.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Yerevan, take the metro to Sasuntsi Davit Train Station. Behind the station, at the Intertown Bus Station, find a minibus (marshrutka) to Ararat. The fare is approximately 500 AMD. From Ararat, you can take a taxi for around 4500 AMD or marshrutka #467 to Khor Virap. Marshrutka #467 runs three times a day at 9:00 am, 2:00 pm, and 6:00 pm and costs 250 AMD. Alternatively, you can walk the remaining 1.5 kilometers.

  • Taxi

    A taxi directly from Yerevan to Khor Virap takes approximately 40-60 minutes, depending on traffic. Expect to pay around 4500 AMD. Negotiate the price beforehand. Some taxi drivers may offer a round trip with waiting time included.

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Discover more about Khor Virap Monastery

Khor Virap Monastery, located in the Ararat Valley, is one of Armenia's most visited pilgrimage sites. Its history is deeply intertwined with the adoption of Christianity as Armenia's state religion. The monastery's name, meaning "deep dungeon," refers to the site's history as a royal prison. According to legend, King Tiridates III imprisoned Gregory the Illuminator here for 13 years due to his Christian beliefs. Gregory's eventual release and subsequent healing of the king led to the conversion of both the ruler and the nation to Christianity in 301 AD, making Armenia the first Christian state. The site features the St. Gevorg Chapel, built in 642 AD over the prison pit, and the St. Astvatsatsin (Holy Mother of God) Church, constructed in the 17th century. Visitors can descend into the pit where St. Gregory was held, a truly unique and somewhat claustrophobic experience. Khor Virap also offers breathtaking views of Mount Ararat, making it a popular spot for photography and contemplation.

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