Etchmiadzin Cathedral: Spiritual Heart of Armenia
Discover Armenia's spiritual heart at Etchmiadzin Cathedral, one of the world's oldest Christian cathedrals and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Etchmiadzin Cathedral, located in Vagharshapat, Armenia, is the spiritual center of the Armenian Apostolic Church and considered one of the oldest cathedrals in the world. Founded in the early 4th century by St. Gregory the Illuminator, it stands as a symbol of Armenia's conversion to Christianity.
A brief summary to Etchmiadzin Cathedral
- 576R+PGF, Vagharshapat, AM
- +37410517100
Local tips
- Dress modestly when visiting, as it is a place of worship.
- Check the opening hours before planning your visit, especially during religious holidays.
- Explore the surrounding churches of Saint Hripsime and Saint Gayane, also UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
- Visit the Treasury Museum to see sacred relics, including a piece of Noah's Ark and the Holy Lance.
Getting There
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Public Transport
From Yerevan, take a minibus (marshrutka) or bus from Kilikia Central Bus Station to Vagharshapat. Buses 202 and 203 run every 10 minutes. The journey takes about 30-40 minutes. From the Vagharshapat bus station, Etchmiadzin Cathedral is a short walk away. The bus fare is approximately 500 AMD.
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available in Yerevan. A taxi ride from Yerevan to Etchmiadzin Cathedral typically takes around 20-30 minutes. The estimated fare is 3,000-4,000 AMD.
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Driving
From Yerevan, take the M5 highway towards Vagharshapat. The drive is approximately 20 kilometers and takes about 30 minutes. Follow the signs to Etchmiadzin Cathedral. Parking is available near the cathedral, but it may be limited during peak tourist seasons. Parking may incur a small fee.
Discover more about Etchmiadzin Cathedral
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