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St. Astvatsatsin Church: A Medieval Armenian Treasure

Discover the medieval beauty of St. Astvatsatsin Church in Yeghvard, a symbol of Armenian religious and architectural heritage.

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St. Astvatsatsin Church, also known as the Holy Mother of God Church, stands in the town of Yeghvard as a remarkable example of 14th-century Armenian architecture. Completed in 1301, the church showcases intricate stone carvings and a serene ambiance, reflecting Armenia's rich Christian heritage.

A brief summary to St. Astvatsatsin Church

  • 8F9J+R5, Yeghvard, AM

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning for a peaceful experience and to enjoy the soft light filtering through the church.
  • Dress modestly when visiting the church to respect local customs.
  • Take your time to explore the surrounding landscape for beautiful photography opportunities.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    To reach St. Astvatsatsin Church via public transport from Yerevan, take minibus number 253 from Yerevan Southern Bus Station to Nor Hachn. From Nor Hachn, take a taxi to Yeghvard. The church is located in the center of Yeghvard. The minibus from Yerevan to Nor Hachn costs approximately $1–2, and the taxi from Nor Hachn to Yeghvard costs approximately $4–9.

  • Taxi

    From Yerevan, a taxi directly to St. Astvatsatsin Church in Yeghvard typically takes around 19 minutes and costs between $6 and $9. Several taxi services operate in Yerevan, including U Taxi, Taxi Viva, and Taxi Transportation. A taxi from Zvartnots International Airport to Yeghvard will cost about 3,000 AMD.

  • Walking

    Once you arrive in the center of Yeghvard, St. Astvatsatsin Church is easily accessible on foot. It's located in the heart of the town, and you can reach it with a short walk from the main square or bus station.

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Discover more about St. Astvatsatsin Church

Located in the heart of Yeghvard, St. Astvatsatsin Church is a testament to Armenia's enduring religious and architectural traditions. Completed in 1301, the church, also called the Holy Mother of God Church, was built to commemorate the millennium of Christianity's establishment as Armenia's state religion. The construction was commissioned during the Zakarid dynasty, with architect Vardapet Shahik at the helm. The church features a unique two-story design with a cruciform central plan. Its exterior is adorned with elaborate carvings, including a large cross flanked by the Virgin Mary and other saints. Animal motifs, such as bulls, lions, and mountain goats, add to the church's distinctive character. Inside, the church's design includes a cylindrical drum supporting a conical dome, creating a reverent atmosphere. Surrounding the church, visitors can explore the remains of a chapel foundation, ancient khachkars, and graves, each telling a story of faith and devotion through the ages. St. Astvatsatsin is not only a place of worship but also a cultural landmark that offers a glimpse into Armenia's medieval past. The church stands as one of the best-preserved monuments of its kind in Armenia, inviting travelers to immerse themselves in its beauty and tranquility.

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