Etchmiadzin Cathedral: The Heart of Armenian Spirituality
Discover the timeless beauty and spiritual significance of Etchmiadzin Cathedral, the oldest in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Etchmiadzin Cathedral, the oldest cathedral in the world, is a must-visit for tourists seeking to explore the rich spiritual heritage and stunning architecture of Armenia. Nestled in Vagharshapat, this UNESCO World Heritage site offers an insight into the country's Christian roots and features breathtaking frescoes and intricate stone carvings. The cathedral's serene atmosphere invites reflection, making it a perfect spot for both history enthusiasts and spiritual seekers.
A brief summary to Etchmiadzin Cathedral
- 576R+PGF, Vagharshapat, AM
- +37410517100
- Monday 7 am-8 pm
- Tuesday 7 am-8 pm
- Wednesday 7 am-8 pm
- Thursday 7 am-8 pm
- Friday 7 am-8 pm
- Saturday 7 am-6 pm
- Sunday 7 am-8 pm
Local tips
- Dress modestly to respect the sacred nature of the cathedral.
- Consider visiting during a weekday to avoid large crowds.
- Take time to explore the museum nearby for a deeper understanding of Armenian history.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning architecture, but remember to be respectful while inside.
- Check the local schedule for any choir performances or religious services that visitors can attend.
Getting There
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Metro and Bus
Start your journey at the 'Republic Square' metro station in Yerevan. Take the metro towards 'Barekamutyun' station. Once you arrive at 'Barekamutyun', exit and head to the bus stop located just outside the station. Board bus number 20, which heads directly to Vagharshapat. Stay on the bus until you reach the stop 'Etchmiadzin Cathedral'. From the bus stop, it’s a short walk (approximately 5 minutes) to the cathedral entrance.
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Taxi
If you prefer a more direct route, you can hail a taxi from anywhere in Yerevan. Simply tell the driver 'Etchmiadzin Cathedral' or show them the address: '576R+PGF, Vagharshapat'. The ride will take approximately 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic. Ensure to agree on the fare before starting your journey, or use a ride-hailing app for convenience.
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Walking
For the more adventurous, if you’re in the vicinity of the 'Vernissage' market or the 'Cascade', you can walk to Etchmiadzin Cathedral. Head towards 'Arshakunyats Avenue' and follow it northwest until you reach the intersection with 'Vagharshapat'. Continue straight until you see signs for the cathedral. The total walking distance is around 15 kilometers, which would take approximately 3 hours. Along the way, you will pass through several local neighborhoods and can enjoy the scenery.
Discover more about Etchmiadzin Cathedral
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