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Arshakid Kings Mausoleum: Resting Place of Armenian Royalty

Discover the Arshakid Kings Mausoleum in Aghdzk, Armenia, a historic site where pagan and Christian royalty rest in an ancient tomb complex.

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The Arshakid Kings Mausoleum, located in the village of Aghdzk, Armenia, is a 4th-century grave monument complex that once housed the remains of both pagan and Christian kings from the Arshakid dynasty. The site includes a basilica built in the 5th century and remnants of other ancient structures.

A brief summary to Arshakid Kings Mausoleum

  • 8784+75Q, Aghdzk, 0207, AM

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy a peaceful experience.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as the terrain around the mausoleum can be uneven.
  • Bring a camera to capture the stunning views and intricate details of the mausoleum.
  • Consider visiting nearby attractions such as Amberd Fortress or Lake Kari to make the most of your trip to Aghdzk.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    To reach the Arshakid Kings Mausoleum via public transportation, start at the Armavir bus station. Take a minibus or bus heading to Aghdzk; these usually depart regularly. The bus fare is approximately 500 AMD (about $1 USD). Once in Aghdzk, you can hire a taxi to the Mausoleum, which is around 3,000-5,000 AMD ($6-$10 USD).

  • Taxi

    From Yerevan, a taxi to Arshakid Kings Mausoleum takes approximately 32 minutes and costs between $10-$13 USD. Alternatively, a taxi from Yerevan to Vagharshapat, followed by another taxi to Arshakid Kings Mausoleum will also take you to the destination.

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Discover more about Arshakid Kings Mausoleum

Nestled in the village of Aghdzk, in the Aragatsotn Province of Armenia, lies the Arshakid Kings Mausoleum, a significant monument dating back to the mid-late 4th century. This grave monument complex is renowned for once holding the remains of both pagan and Christian kings of the Arshakid dynasty, who ruled Armenia from 12 AD to 428 AD. The mausoleum's history is intertwined with tales of Persian invasions and Armenian resilience. In 364 AD, the Persian King Shapur II captured Ani-Kamakh and attempted to take the bones of the Armenian kings to Persia, believing it would transfer their glory and courage. However, Sparapet Vassak Mamikonian defeated the Persians and returned the relics to be buried in Aghdzk. The architecture of the mausoleum is notable for its semi-cruciform plan and the ossuary niches where the royal remains were placed. The ossuary boxes are adorned with bas-reliefs depicting biblical and mythological scenes. The northern relief portrays Daniel in the lions' den, while the southern one features a mythical hero with astrological imagery. Legend states that the Christian kings were buried on the north side and the pagan kings on the south side of the entrance. A basilica, constructed in the late 4th to early 5th century, adjoins the mausoleum to the north. Only the lower walls of the basilica remain, along with some carved stones. Excavations in the 1970s revealed the upper part of the tomb and the foundation of the basilica. The entrance, located on the west side, is decorated with hunting scenes. Although the structure was originally two stories tall, only the lower chamber remains today. Visiting the Arshakid Kings Mausoleum offers a glimpse into Armenia's regal past and the fascinating blend of pagan and Christian traditions that shaped its cultural heritage.

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