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St. Astvatsatsin Kathoghike Church: A Sanctuary in Yerevan

Discover Yerevan's hidden gem: a historic 13th-century Armenian church with intricate stonework and a peaceful atmosphere in the heart of the city.

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Nestled in the heart of Yerevan, St. Astvatsatsin Kathoghike Church is a small but historically significant Armenian church dating back to the 13th century. Known for its intricate stonework and peaceful atmosphere, it provides a serene escape from the bustling city.

A brief summary to St. Astvatsatsin Kathoghike Church

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and experience the best natural light for photography.
  • Dress modestly when visiting the church, as it is an active place of worship.
  • Take a moment to explore the surrounding area, which features charming cafes and shops.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Republic Square, walk north on Abovyan Street for approximately 1 km. St. Astvatsatsin Kathoghike Church will be on your left at 17 Abovyan St. The walk is relatively flat and should take about 15-20 minutes.

  • Public Transport

    From Yerevan State University, take bus number 21 or minibus number 18 towards the city center. Get off at the stop near the intersection of Abovyan Street. Walk approximately 300 meters down Abovyan Street towards the left. The church will be at 17 Abovyan St. The bus fare is around 100 AMD.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Yerevan. Use a ride-hailing app like GG Taxi or Yandex Taxi to book a ride to St. Astvatsatsin Kathoghike Church, 17 Abovyan Street. A short taxi ride from Republic Square will cost approximately 1,100 AMD.

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Discover more about St. Astvatsatsin Kathoghike Church

St. Astvatsatsin Kathoghike Church, located on Abovyan Street in Yerevan, is a captivating testament to Armenia's enduring faith and architectural heritage. This relatively small church, whose name translates to 'Holy Mother of God', has a rich history dating back to the 13th century. It stands as one of the oldest surviving churches in Yerevan, offering a unique glimpse into the city's medieval past. The church's architecture is characterized by its simplicity and elegance, typical of medieval Armenian church design. Constructed from local pink tuff stone, the building glows softly at sunset. Inside, the church preserves medieval frescoes and manuscripts, testaments to Armenia's rich religious and cultural heritage. Originally, a larger basilica church stood on the site, incorporating the smaller St. Astvatsatsin as its altar. However, the larger structure was demolished in the 1930s, revealing the original 13th-century church. For decades, the church remained hidden in the backyard of a Soviet-era building until renovations in the 2000s made it visible once more. Today, St. Astvatsatsin Kathoghike Church not only serves as an important pilgrimage destination but also as a vibrant community center, hosting regular services and cultural programs.

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