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St. Astvatsatsin Kathoghike Church: A Sanctuary in Yerevan

Discover Yerevan's hidden gem: a medieval Armenian church with stunning architecture and a rich, resilient history in the heart of the city.

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Nestled in the heart of Yerevan, St. Astvatsatsin Kathoghike Church stands as a testament to Armenia's enduring faith and architectural heritage. This medieval church, dating back to the 13th century, offers a serene escape from the bustling city, showcasing intricate stonework and a rich history that resonates through the ages.

A brief summary to St. Astvatsatsin Kathoghike Church

  • Monday 9 am-8 am
  • Tuesday 9 am-8 am
  • Wednesday 9 am-8 am
  • Thursday 9 am-8 am
  • Friday 9 am-8 am
  • Saturday 9 am-8 am
  • Sunday 9 am-8 am

Local tips

  • Dress respectfully when visiting; shoulders and knees should be covered.
  • Take a moment to admire the intricate carvings and the unique pink tuff stone, especially beautiful at sunset.
  • Combine your visit with a stroll along Abovyan Street, known for its shops and cafes.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Republic Square, walk north along Abovyan Street for approximately 10 minutes. The church is located at 17 Abovyan Street, on the left-hand side. There are no costs associated with walking.

  • Public Transport

    Take any bus or minibus that stops near Abovyan Street. From the bus stop, walk a short distance to number 17 Abovyan Street. Public transportation costs 100 AMD per ride.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Yerevan. Request a ride to 17 Abovyan Street. A short taxi ride from the city center will typically cost between 600-1100 AMD. Be sure to have cash, as card payments are not typically accepted.

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Discover more about St. Astvatsatsin Kathoghike Church

St. Astvatsatsin Kathoghike Church, located on Abovyan Street in Yerevan, is a significant religious and historical site. The name 'Astvatsatsin' translates to 'Mother of God' in Armenian, reflecting its dedication. The church's history dates back to the 13th century, built upon the ruins of an older church from the 5th or 6th century. This sacred place has witnessed numerous historical events, influencing Yerevan and Armenia's destiny. The architecture showcases the simplicity and elegance of medieval Armenian church design. Constructed with local pink tuff stone, the church radiates a soft glow, especially enchanting at sunset. Inside, the richly decorated interior houses medieval frescoes and manuscripts, preserving Armenia's religious and cultural heritage. In 1604, the church suffered damage during the occupation of Yerevan led by Shah Abbas I of Persia. After a devastating earthquake in 1679, a larger basilica was built on the site in the late 17th century, incorporating the smaller 13th-century church. During the Soviet era, the larger basilica was demolished in 1936, revealing the original St. Astvatsatsin Church. Today, it stands as a unique monument of medieval Yerevan, preserved due to its survival of the earthquake. The church has been renovated several times, most recently in the 2000s when the surrounding area was given to the Armenian Apostolic Church.

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