Khor Virap: Armenia's Historic Hilltop Gem

Discover Khor Virap: Armenia's Iconic Monastery Offering Historical Depth and Unmatched Views of Mount Ararat.

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Khor Virap

Khor Virap is one of Armenia's most treasured historic sites, nestled against the breathtaking backdrop of Mount Ararat. This ancient monastery is famed for its stunning views, rich history, and profound spiritual significance. It sits atop a hill in the Ararat Plain, where lush vineyards and fertile fields stretch as far as the eye can see. The monastery is most famous for being the site where Gregory the Illuminator, the patron saint of Armenia, was imprisoned for 13 years. His confinement in a deep underground pit, which visitors can still explore today, played a crucial role in Armenia becoming the first nation to adopt Christianity as its state religion in 301 AD. Walking through the ancient corridors, you can almost feel the weight of history pressing upon you. Aside from its historical significance, Khor Virap offers an unparalleled panoramic view of Mount Ararat, the biblical resting place of Noah's Ark. On clear days, the majestic snow-capped peak seems close enough to touch, providing a perfect backdrop for photographs. The serenity and beauty of the landscape make Khor Virap a must-visit for those seeking both spiritual and visual inspiration.

Local tips in Khor Virap

Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and capture the best photos of Mount Ararat.
Wear comfortable shoes as the terrain can be uneven, especially when exploring the underground pit.
Bring water and snacks, as there are limited facilities nearby.
Consider hiring a local guide to gain deeper insights into the monastery's history and significance.
Check the weather forecast and visit on a clear day for the best views of Mount Ararat.

File:Monasterio Khor Virap, Armenia, 2016-10-01, DD 25.jpg - Wikipedia

File:Khor Virap monastery with Mount Ararat in background DJI 0016-3.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Khor Virap Monastery, Armenia (29574681071).jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Mount Ararat and Khor Virap, Field, Ararat Plain, Armenia.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

When is the best time to go to Khor Virap?

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Khor Virap Monastery

Discover the spiritual essence of Armenia at Khor Virap Monastery, a historic site with stunning views of Mount Ararat.

Gevork Chavush Statue

Explore Gevork Chavush Statue, a historical landmark symbolizing Armenian heritage amidst stunning landscapes near Khor Virap monastery.

Khor Virap State Sanctuary

Discover the spiritual heart of Armenia at Khor Virap State Sanctuary, where history and nature converge beneath the majestic Mount Ararat.

Unmissable attractions to see

Nansen Park

Discover the beauty of Nansen Park in Yerevan, a tranquil escape with lush greenery, vibrant flowerbeds, and cultural experiences waiting to be explored.

Paruyr Sevak House-Museum

Explore the cultural depths of Armenia at the Paruyr Sevak House-Museum, a tribute to one of the nation’s most beloved poets and literary figures.

Silva Kaputikyan House-Museum

Explore the Silva Kaputikyan House-Museum in Yerevan, where the poetic legacy of Armenia comes alive through captivating exhibits and serene surroundings.

Cave of Stones

Discover the enchanting Cave of Stones in Mets Gilanlar, a unique tourist attraction filled with stunning geological formations and rich history.

Garegin Nzhdeh Sculpture

Discover the legacy of Garegin Nzhdeh at this iconic monument in Yerevan, a symbol of Armenian nationalism and cultural pride.

Vazgen Sargsyan

Explore the serene Vazgen Sargsyan Memorial Park in Ararat, a tribute to Armenian heritage and a peaceful retreat for all visitors.

Zodi banavan(Gyoler)

Explore the serene beauty of Zodi Banavan (Gyoler) garden in Ararat, a perfect escape for nature lovers and a peaceful retreat for tourists.

Флаг Армении

Explore Flagh Armenia, a breathtaking tourist attraction blending stunning landscapes with rich cultural heritage in the heart of Armenia.

Pear garden

Experience the tranquility of the Pear Garden in Pokr Vedi, a serene escape into nature's beauty, perfect for relaxation and leisure.

Surenavan Aragil street

Explore Surenavan Aragil Street, a picturesque Armenian gem with vibrant culture, stunning views, and authentic local cuisine waiting to be discovered.

Torq Angegh

Explore Torq Angegh, a captivating tourist attraction in Yerevan, where history and culture blend seamlessly in a stunning urban landscape.

Manukyan Brandy Factory

Explore the rich heritage of Armenian brandy at Manukyan Brandy Factory, where tradition meets exquisite craftsmanship in every bottle.

Upper Lake

Explore Upper Lake in Yerevan, a serene escape surrounded by nature, ideal for relaxation and outdoor activities for all ages.

Памятная стела

Explore the Pamyatnaya Stela in Yerevan, a remarkable monument celebrating Armenian history and culture in a serene park setting.

Edgar Allan Poe Graffiti

Experience the vibrant Edgar Allan Poe Graffiti in Yerevan, where art meets literature in a stunning urban tribute to the legendary author.

Essential places to dine

Lavash Restaurant

Experience the essence of Armenian cuisine at Lavash Restaurant in Yerevan - where tradition meets taste in every dish.

Shirvan Persian Halal Restaurant

Experience authentic Persian flavors at Shirvan Persian Halal Restaurant in Yerevan—where culinary tradition meets exceptional hospitality.

Indian Mehak Restaurant & Bar

Experience authentic Indian cuisine at Indian Mehak Restaurant & Bar in Yerevan, where every dish tells a story of tradition and flavor.

Sherep Restaurant ( Շերեփ ռեստորան )

Savor authentic Armenian flavors and European delicacies in the heart of Yerevan at Sherep Restaurant.

Tavern Yerevan (Teryan) Պանդոկ Երևան (Տերյան)

Discover the flavors of Armenia at Tavern Yerevan - where tradition meets taste in every dish.

Caucasus Tavern

Discover the heart of Armenian cuisine at Caucasus Tavern in Yerevan—where tradition meets taste in a cozy atmosphere.

Tumanyan Khinkali

Savor authentic Georgian flavors at Tumanyan Khinkali in Yerevan – where every bite tells a story.

EL Garden

Discover exquisite Armenian and European cuisine at EL Garden in Yerevan - where flavor meets ambiance in a charming garden setting.

Tun Lahmajo

Experience authentic Armenian flavors at Tun Lahmajo in Yerevan – where tradition meets taste in every dish.

Gata Tavern

Experience authentic Armenian cuisine at Gata Tavern in Yerevan - where tradition meets taste in a warm and inviting atmosphere.

Ararat Tavern

Experience the essence of Armenia at Ararat Tavern - where tradition meets flavor in every bite.

Tavern Yerevan

Experience authentic Armenian cuisine at Tavern Yerevan – where tradition meets flavor in a cozy setting.

Limone

Discover authentic Italian cuisine at Limone in Yerevan – where every meal feels like a journey to Italy.

Vostan

Discover authentic Armenian flavors at Vostan in Yerevan - where tradition meets modern cuisine in a welcoming ambiance.

Cascade Royal

Discover the finest Armenian cuisine at Cascade Royal – where elegance meets exceptional dining in Yerevan.

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Khor Virap Monastery

Discover the historic Khor Virap Monastery, a spiritual haven with stunning views of Mount Ararat, rich in Armenia's cultural heritage.

Ararat

Explore the flavors of Armenia at Ararat's charming grocery store, offering fresh local produce and traditional delights for every visitor.

Էմիլիա Մարկետ

Explore the vibrant local culture at Էմիլիա Մարկետ in Artashat, where authentic Armenian goods and friendly faces await.

Avshar Market

Experience the vibrant flavors of Armenia at Avshar Market, your go-to destination for fresh groceries and delightful baked goods.

Wine Homemade

Explore Armenia's rich winemaking heritage at Wine Homemade, your one-stop destination for all winemaking supplies and expert guidance in Yerevan.

ARARAT Market

Explore ARARAT Market, a vibrant hub in Pokr Vedi offering fresh produce, local crafts, and an authentic Armenian shopping experience.

Դեղատուն Ռոբերտ Ղազարյան

Discover the essential drugstore for travelers in Taperakan, offering quality products and exceptional service at Դեղատուն Ռոբերտ Ղազարյան.

Arevmarket

Experience the essence of Armenian culture at Arevmarket, Vosketap's premier destination for unique crafts and local delicacies.

Fresh Market

Explore Fresh Market in Nor Kyank - A treasure trove of local produce, artisanal goods, and authentic flavors waiting for every curious traveler.

Souvenirs

Explore the charm of Lusarat with unique souvenirs that capture the essence of Armenian culture and craftsmanship.

Fresh house

Discover the cozy charm of Fresh House in Lusarat, where exquisite coffee and delightful treats create the perfect ambiance for relaxation.

Eco product

Discover Eco Product in Aralez, where sustainability meets quality shopping with organic produce and eco-friendly goods.

Shop

Discover Ginevet's unique shopping scene with local artisan goods and traditional crafts that reflect the rich Armenian culture.

Ripi Designe

Explore Ripi Designe in Artashat for unique local crafts and modern designs, reflecting the beauty of Armenian culture.

ELITE MOBILE

Explore Elite Mobile in Artashat, where exceptional service meets a vast selection of mobile devices and accessories for all your travel needs.

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Calumet Ethnic Lounge Bar

Discover Yerevan's vibrant nightlife at Calumet Ethnic Lounge Bar, where culture and music blend for an unforgettable experience.

DABOO Cocktail Bar

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Yerevan at DABOO Cocktail Bar, where innovative cocktails meet a lively atmosphere for unforgettable nights.

El Sky Bar

Experience the breathtaking views and luxurious ambiance at El Sky Bar, the premier destination for cocktails and relaxation in Yerevan.

Simona

Discover Simona, Yerevan's lively bar, where vibrant nightlife meets expertly crafted cocktails in a unique setting.

Stoyka pub

Experience the lively atmosphere of Stoyka Pub in Yerevan, where locals and tourists unite for unforgettable nights filled with music, drinks, and fun.

Friends Pub

Discover the vibrant nightlife of Yerevan at Friends Pub, where good friends, great drinks, and live music create unforgettable moments.

Process Bar

Discover the lively nightlife of Yerevan at Process Bar, where creative cocktails and vibrant atmosphere await every night.

The Venue

Discover the heart of Yerevan's nightlife at The Venue, where great drinks and an inviting atmosphere await every visitor.

Ralina Restaurant and Hotel

Experience the authentic flavors of Armenia at Ralina Restaurant and Hotel in Taperakan, where every meal tells a story.

Ham Buyr Gastro Cafe

Experience the rich flavors of Armenian cuisine at Ham Buyr Gastro Cafe in Pokr Vedi – a culinary gem for every food lover.

Cristal Bar & Lounge

Experience exceptional cocktails and exquisite cuisine at Cristal Bar & Lounge, the chic heart of Yerevan's vibrant nightlife.

Roza Bar Yerevan

Discover Roza Bar in Yerevan for an unforgettable nightlife experience with vibrant atmosphere and delicious beverages.

Safe Lounge Bar

Join the vibrant nightlife at Safe Lounge Bar in Yerevan, where live music, delicious drinks, and a friendly atmosphere await you.

Nrane

Experience the enchanting flavors of Armenian cuisine at Nrane in Vedi, where tradition meets modern culinary artistry.

Armen's Pub

Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Armen's Pub in Artashat, where local flavors and warm hospitality create unforgettable experiences.

Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide to Khor Virap

Discover Khor Virap with Evendo, a 100% free app-based local travel guide. Explore attractions, landmarks, restaurants, and more with ease and convenience.

Local Phrases about Khor Virap

- HelloԲարև
  [Barev]
- GoodbyeՑտեսնել
  [Tsdesnel]
- YesԱյո
  [Ayvo]
- NoՈչ
  [Voč]
- Please/You're welcomeԽնդրում եմ
  [Khndrum em]
- Thank youՇնորհակալություն
  [Shnorhakalutyun]
- Excuse me/SorryՆերողություն
  [Neroghutyun]
- How are you?Ինչպե՞ս եք
  [Inčpes ek]
- Fine. And you?Լավ, ինչպես Ես
  [Lav, inčpes Es]
- Do you speak English?Դու խօսում ես անգլերեն
  [Du xosum es angleren]
- I don't understandԵս չեմ հասկանալ
  [Es čem haskanal]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseԽնդրում եմ տեսնել ճաշացանկը
  [Khndrum em tesnel chashatsankë]
- I don't eat meatԵս միս չուշանում
  [Es mis čušanum]
- Cheers!Կէլա՟
  [Kelaz]
- I would like to pay, pleaseԽնդրում եմ վճարել
  [Khndrum em včarel]
- Help!Օգնեք
  [Ognek]
- Go away!Հերիք
  [Herik]
- Call the Police!Զանգահարեք ոստիկանը
  [Zangaharek ostikanë]
- Call a doctor!Զանգահարեք բժիշկը
  [Zangaharek bžiškë]
- I'm lostԵս կորցրել եմ
  [Es kortšrel em]
- I'm illԵս հիվանդ եմ
  [Es hivanad em]
- I'd like to buy...Խնդրում եմ գնել
  [Khndrum em gnel]
- I'm just lookingԵս միայն նայում եմ
  [Es miayn nayum em]
- How much is it?Քանի է այդը
  [Kani ē aydë]
- That's too expensiveԴա շատ թաքս է
  [Da šat taxs ē]
- Can you lower the price?Կարես առնել գինը
  [Kares arnel ginë]
- What time is it?Որ ժամ է
  [Vor žam ē]
- It's one o'clockԵս մեկը ժամ է
  [Es mekë žam ē]
- Half past (10)Ականջ ինը (10)
  [Akanj inë (10)]
- MorningԱռավոտ
  [Aravot]
- AfternoonԵրեկո
  [Ereko]
- EveningԵրեկո
  [Ereko]
- YesterdayԵրեկ
  [Ereko]
- TodayԱյսօր
  [Aysor]
- TomorrowՎաղը
  [Vaġë]
- 1Մեկ
  [Mek]
- 2Երկու
  [Eryu]
- 3Երեք
  [Erek]
- 4Չորս
  [Čors]
- 5Հինգ
  [Hing]
- 6Վեց
  [Vec]
- 7Յոթ
  [Yot]
- 8Ութ
  [Ut]
- 9Ինը
  [Inë]
- 10Տաս
  [Tas]
- Where's a/the...?Որտեղ է ...-ը
  [Vortegh ē ...-ë]
- What's the address?Ի՞նչ է հասցեն
  [Inčʿ ē hascen]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Կարող ե՞ք ցուցադրել (քարտում)
  [Karogh e֞k tsucʿadrel (kartum)]
- When's the next (bus)?Երբ է հաջորդը (ավտոբուսը)
  [Erb ē hajordë (avtobusë)]
- A ticket (to ....)Բիլետ (մինչև ...)
  [Bilet (minčʿev ...)]

History of Khor Virap

Khor Virap, meaning 'deep dungeon,' is one of the most iconic sites in Armenia, primarily due to its historical and religious significance. Located near the border with Turkey, this monastery complex has roots tracing back to ancient Armenia. The site is believed to have been used since Urartian times, though it gained prominence during the early Christian era.
One of the most significant historical events associated with Khor Virap is the imprisonment of St. Gregory the Illuminator. In the late 3rd century, Gregory was held in a deep pit in Khor Virap for 13 years by King Tiridates III of Armenia. Gregory's survival and eventual release are considered miraculous and pivotal in the Christianization of Armenia.
The release of St. Gregory the Illuminator from Khor Virap led to a transformative event in Armenian history. In 301 AD, King Tiridates III converted to Christianity, making Armenia the first nation to adopt Christianity as its state religion. Gregory became the first official head of the Armenian Apostolic Church, and Khor Virap became a sacred site for Armenian Christians.
The current structure of Khor Virap Monastery dates back to the 17th century, though it was built on the site of earlier religious buildings. The complex includes a chapel, St. Astvatsatsin Church, and the famous pit where St. Gregory was imprisoned. The monastery offers stunning views of Mount Ararat, which holds a significant place in Armenian culture and history.
Khor Virap is situated near the Armenian-Turkish border, with Mount Ararat visible in the distance. This geographic proximity has made Khor Virap a symbol of Armenian heritage and identity, especially in the context of historical events such as the Armenian Genocide. The site serves as a reminder of the complex and often strained relations between Armenia and Turkey.
Today, Khor Virap remains a major pilgrimage site for Armenians and tourists alike. It is not only a place of religious significance but also a cultural and historical landmark. The annual pilgrimage on the feast day of St. Gregory the Illuminator draws thousands of visitors who come to pay homage and connect with Armenia's rich history.

Khor Virap Essentials

Khor Virap is located in the Ararat Plain in Armenia, near the border with Turkey. The nearest major city is Yerevan, which is about 40 kilometers away. Travelers can reach Khor Virap by taking a taxi or a private car from Yerevan. Alternatively, there are organized tours and minibus (marshrutka) services that operate from Yerevan to Khor Virap. The journey typically takes around 45 minutes to an hour by road.
Once at Khor Virap, most of the sites can be explored on foot. If you wish to explore the surrounding areas, hiring a taxi or renting a car from Yerevan is recommended. Public transportation options are limited directly at Khor Virap, but organized tours often include transportation to and from the site. Ensure to arrange your return trip in advance if you're not on a tour.
The official currency in Armenia is the Armenian Dram (AMD). While some larger establishments in Yerevan may accept credit cards, it is advisable to carry cash when traveling to Khor Virap. ATMs are available in Yerevan, but there are no ATMs near Khor Virap itself. Make sure to withdraw enough cash before leaving the city.
Khor Virap is generally considered a safe destination for tourists. However, standard travel precautions should be taken. Avoid leaving your belongings unattended and be cautious of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists around Khor Virap, but it's always best to stay vigilant.
In case of emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. The nearest medical facilities are located in Yerevan, so it is crucial to keep a list of emergency contacts and know the route back to the city. For minor health issues, bring a basic first aid kit and any necessary medications with you.
Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting the monastery. Avoid revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Cover your head when entering churches and monasteries. Public Transport: Do be respectful and give up your seat to elderly passengers if using public transport to get to Khor Virap. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake or a slight bow of the head. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.
To experience Khor Virap like a local, consider visiting during early morning or late afternoon to avoid the crowds and enjoy the serene atmosphere. Engage with local guides who can share insightful stories about the history and significance of the site. Don't miss the stunning view of Mount Ararat from Khor Virap, especially at sunrise or sunset. If you have time, explore nearby villages and interact with the locals to gain a deeper understanding of Armenian culture.

Khor Virap: Armenia's Historic Hilltop Gem

Local tips in Khor Virap