The Spiritual Heart of Armenia: Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin
Explore the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin, the oldest cathedral and spiritual center of Armenian Christianity, rich in history and culture.
A brief summary to Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin - Armenian Apostolic Church (Armenian Orthodox Church)
- 1 Araratyan Street, Vagharshapat, 1101, AM
- +37410517110
Nestled in Vagharshapat, the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin stands as the primary center of the Armenian Apostolic Church and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This magnificent complex, with its stunning ancient architecture, serves not only as a place of worship but also as a cultural hub, attracting visitors from around the globe. The church, founded in the early 4th century, is considered the oldest cathedral in the world and is revered by Armenians as the 'Mother Church'. Visitors can marvel at its intricate stone carvings and significant religious artifacts, including beautifully adorned manuscripts and relics that tell the story of Armenia's Christian heritage. As you wander through the serene grounds, you’ll encounter the adjacent museum, which houses an impressive collection of ecclesiastical art, providing a deeper insight into Armenian religious traditions and history. The tranquil atmosphere, punctuated by the sounds of prayer and the rustling leaves of the surrounding gardens, creates a reflective space for contemplation. Guided tours are available, allowing tourists to appreciate the rich narratives of faith and resilience that permeate the site. Visiting the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin offers a unique opportunity to engage with Armenia's profound spiritual legacy, making it an essential stop for anyone interested in the intersection of history, culture, and religion. Don't forget to explore the nearby attractions in Vagharshapat, which further enrich your experience of this historic region.
Local tips
- Dress modestly, as this is a sacred site; women should cover their heads and shoulders.
- Visit during weekdays to avoid large crowds and have a more peaceful experience.
- Take advantage of guided tours offered in multiple languages for a deeper understanding of the site's significance.
- Explore the surrounding gardens for a serene place to reflect and take stunning photos.
- Check the schedule for special religious services or events to enhance your visit.
Getting There
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Car
From Lori Highlands, drive towards the city of Vanadzor and take the M4 highway towards Yerevan. Continue on the M4 for about 80 km until you reach Vagharshapat. Exit at the Vagharshapat exit and follow the signs towards the center of the city. As you enter Vagharshapat, turn onto Araratyan Street, and you will find the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin on your right at 1 Araratyan Street. Parking is available nearby, but be aware that parking fees may apply.
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Public Transportation
To travel from Lori Highlands to Vagharshapat using public transportation, first, take a minibus (marshrutka) from Vanadzor to Yerevan. The marshrutkas depart frequently from Vanadzor's central bus station. The fare is approximately 1,000 AMD. Once you arrive in Yerevan, transfer to another minibus heading to Vagharshapat, which you can catch from the same bus station. The fare is around 300 AMD. After arriving in Vagharshapat, walk towards Araratyan Street, where the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin is located at 1 Araratyan Street.
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Taxi
For a more direct and comfortable option, you can take a taxi from your location in Lori Highlands directly to the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin. This option is more expensive, with fares typically ranging from 10,000 to 15,000 AMD depending on your exact starting point. Ensure you negotiate the fare before starting your journey. Taxis can be booked through local apps or hailed on the street.
Attractions Nearby to Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin - Armenian Apostolic Church (Armenian Orthodox Church)
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Etchmiadzin Cathedral
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Ruben Sevak Museum
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Saint Vardan and Saint Hovhannes Chapel-Baptistry
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Pontifical Residence
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Holy Archangels Church
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Alex and Marie Manoogian Treasury House - Museum
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Khoren Ter-Harutyunyan Museum
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Komitas monument
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Historical and Ethnographic Museum of Echmiadzin
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Saint Gayane Church
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Machanents Tourism & Art
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Saint Hripsime Church
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Zvartnots Temple
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Van Ardi Winery
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Dzor
Landmarks nearby to Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin - Armenian Apostolic Church (Armenian Orthodox Church)
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Զոհված Ազատամարտիկների Հիշատակին
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Saint John Church
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Saint Sion Childs Church
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Hovhannes Shiraz Statue
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Vahan Teryan Statue
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Fortalesa de Kosh
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Agarak Historical and Cultural Reserve
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Shengavit Ancient Settlement
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Yerevan Park
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Nerses Ashtaraketsi Statue
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ArmAs Winery
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Spitakavor Church
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Tumanyan Park
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Tsiranavor Church
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Nor Jraghats