Karmravor Church, Yerevan Travel Guide

Karmravor Church, nestled in the town of Ashtarak, is a captivating testament to Armenia's rich religious and architectural heritage. This small, cross-domed church, dating back to the 7th century, is also known as the Church of Holy Mother of God (Surb Astvatsatsin). The church owes its distinctive name, Karmravor, meaning 'reddish' in Armenian, to its red-tiled roof, a feature that distinguishes it from other ancient churches in the region.Constructed by priests Grigor and Manas, the church exemplifies early medieval Armenian ecclesiastical architecture. Its design follows a cruciform plan, featuring a central dome with an octagonal drum and a rectangular apse. The church's modest size, measuring only 5.9 x 7.4 meters, adds to its intimate and serene atmosphere. The interior is adorned with intricate carvings and frescoes, offering a glimpse into the development of early Christian art.Karmravor Church holds the distinction of being the only ancient church in Armenia to have preserved its original tiled roof. The tiles, laid in mortar, have withstood the test of time, with only minor restoration work carried out in the 1950s. Surrounding the church is a medieval graveyard, featuring khachkars (cross-stones) and gravestones dating from the 13th to 17th centuries. Among these, the oldest khachkar, known as 'Arqakazmoghin,' dates back to 1184. The tomb of the renowned Armenian poet Gevorg Emin is also located in the churchyard.Legends intertwine with the history of Karmravor Church. One tells the tale of three sisters who, all in love with the same man, sacrificed themselves for the happiness of the youngest, leading to the construction of three churches, each named after the color of the sisters' dresses: Karmravor (red), Tsiranavor (apricot), and Spitakavor (white). Whether seeking architectural beauty, historical significance, or spiritual solace, Karmravor Church offers an unforgettable experience that embodies the essence of Armenian culture and tradition.