The Majestic Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin
Discover the spiritual heart of Armenia at the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the oldest Christian church in the world.
The Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin, the spiritual center of the Armenian Apostolic Church, offers visitors a profound glimpse into Armenia's rich Christian heritage. This UNESCO World Heritage Site, surrounded by lush gardens, showcases ancient architecture, stunning frescoes, and significant religious artifacts, making it a must-visit for tourists seeking cultural and historical enrichment.
A brief summary to Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin - Armenian Apostolic Church (Armenian Orthodox Church)
- 1 Araratyan Street, Vagharshapat, 1101, AM
- +37410517110
- Visit website
Local tips
- Plan your visit during weekdays for a quieter experience.
- Dress modestly to respect the sacred nature of the site.
- Consider joining a guided tour for deeper historical insights.
- Take your time in the gardens; they are perfect for reflection and photography.
- Allocate time to explore the museum for a richer understanding of Armenian Christianity.
Getting There
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Car
If you are driving from Armavir, take the M1 highway heading towards Vagharshapat. It's approximately a 30-minute drive (around 25 kilometers). Once you reach Vagharshapat, follow the signs to the center of the city. Turn onto Araratyan Street; the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin will be on your left. There is parking available near the church, but it can fill up quickly on weekends.
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Public Transportation
To reach the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin using public transportation, head to the Armavir bus station. Look for a marshrutka (minibus) heading to Vagharshapat. The fare is approximately 300 AMD (Armenian Dram) and the journey will take about 40 minutes. Once you arrive at the Vagharshapat bus station, you can either walk (about 20 minutes) or take a taxi to Araratyan Street. Walking directions: Head east on the main road until you reach the church on your left.
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Taxi
For a more convenient option, consider taking a taxi directly from Armavir to the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin. The fare will vary, but you can expect to pay around 3000 to 4000 AMD for the trip. The ride should take approximately 30 minutes. Make sure to agree on the fare beforehand or use a ride-hailing app if available.
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