Discover the Spiritual Heart of Armenia: Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin
Experience the spiritual and historical essence of Armenia at the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin, a UNESCO World Heritage site rich in tradition.
The Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin is an iconic symbol of Armenian identity and heritage, serving as the spiritual headquarters of the Armenian Apostolic Church. This remarkable site is steeped in history, dating back to the early 4th century, making it one of the oldest Christian churches in the world. Visitors will be captivated by its magnificent architecture, which showcases distinct Armenian styles, and the serene atmosphere that reverberates with centuries of faith. As you wander through the grounds, you'll encounter beautifully maintained gardens, impressive cathedrals, and historical monuments, each telling a story of the resilience and devotion of the Armenian people. The most notable structure is the Etchmiadzin Cathedral, which stands as a testament to the architectural prowess of its time and is revered as the mother church of the Armenian Apostolic faith. Inside, the cathedral houses valuable relics and ancient manuscripts, offering a glimpse into the rich tapestry of Armenian Christian history. In addition to its spiritual significance, the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin is also a cultural hub, hosting various art exhibitions and community events throughout the year. Tourists will appreciate the opportunity to engage with local traditions and customs, making their visit not only a spiritual journey but also a cultural exploration. Whether you are seeking spiritual enlightenment or a deeper understanding of Armenia's heritage, the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin is an essential stop on any travel itinerary.
Local tips
- Dress modestly when visiting the cathedral as it is a sacred site.
- Plan your visit during a service to experience the church's vibrant community life.
- Take time to explore the surrounding gardens and smaller chapels for a tranquil experience.
- Use a local guide to gain deeper insights into the historical significance of the site.
- Check the opening hours before your visit to ensure access to all areas.
A brief summary to Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin - Armenian Apostolic Church (Armenian Orthodox Church)
- 1 Araratyan Street, Vagharshapat, 1101, AM
- +37410517110
- Visit website
- Monday 9 am-6 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-6 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-6 pm
- Thursday 9 am-6 pm
- Friday 9 am-6 pm
- Saturday 9 am-6 pm
- Sunday 9 am-6 pm
Getting There
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Public Transport - Metro and Bus
Start your journey at the Republic Square metro station (Hanrapetutyan Hraparak). Take the metro towards the 'Barekamutyun' station and get off at the 'Marshal Baghramyan' station. Upon exiting the metro, walk towards the bus stop where you can catch bus number 15. Board the bus and stay on until you reach the stop for 'Vagharshapat'. From the bus stop, it's about a 15-minute walk to the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin, located at 1 Araratyan Street. Follow the signs or ask locals for directions, as it is a well-known landmark.
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Taxi or Ride-sharing
If you prefer a more direct route, you can use a taxi or ride-sharing service like Yandex Taxi or Bolt. Simply set your destination to 'Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin' or input the address '1 Araratyan Street, Vagharshapat'. The ride from central Yerevan should take approximately 25-30 minutes, depending on traffic.
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Walking
If you are feeling adventurous and wish to walk, you can start from the center of Yerevan. Head towards the direction of the Yerevan Cascade and continue straight until you reach the 'Araratian Street'. It's a long walk, approximately 11 km, so be prepared for a 2-3 hour trek. Along the way, enjoy the beautiful sights of Yerevan.
Attractions Nearby to Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin - Armenian Apostolic Church (Armenian Orthodox Church)
- Etchmiadzin Cathedral
- Ruben Sevak Museum
- Saint Vardan and Saint Hovhannes Chapel-Baptistry
- Pontifical Residence
- Holy Archangels Church
- Alex and Marie Manoogian Treasury House - Museum
- Khoren Ter-Harutyunyan Museum
- Komitas monument
- Historical and Ethnographic Museum of Echmiadzin
- Saint Gayane Church
- Machanents Tourism & Art
- Saint Hripsime Church
- Zvartnots Temple
- Van Ardi Winery
- Dzor
Landmarks nearby to Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin - Armenian Apostolic Church (Armenian Orthodox Church)
- Զոհված Ազատամարտիկների Հիշատակին
- Saint John Church
- Saint Sion Childs Church
- Hovhannes Shiraz Statue
- Vahan Teryan Statue
- Fortalesa de Kosh
- Agarak Historical and Cultural Reserve
- Shengavit Ancient Settlement
- Nerses Ashtaraketsi Statue
- Spitakavor Church
- Tumanyan Park
- Tsiranavor Church
- Nor Jraghats
- Arzé Lebanese Café by Pascal & Diodato Ashtarak
- Փոկաբերդ / Pokaberd