Etchmiadzin — Zvartnots Tour

Programm:

 Tour Program: Echmiadzin — Zvartnots

09:00 – Group Meeting in Yerevan

• Meet at a convenient central location

• Introduction to the guide

• Brief overview of the route and its historical significance

09:15 – Departure from Yerevan

First Stop: Church of Saint Hripsime (~09:45 – 10:15)

• One of the oldest Christian churches in Armenia (7th century)

• Built on the site of the martyrdom of Saint Hripsime, whose story is closely tied to Armenia’s conversion to Christianity

• Tour of the church’s unique architecture and interior

• Guide’s explanation of the legend and spiritual importance of the site

 Second Stop: Echmiadzin Cathedral (~10:20 – 11:30)

• The spiritual center of the Armenian Apostolic Church and one of the oldest Christian cathedrals in the world (founded in the 4th century)

• Visit the main altar, where, according to tradition, Christ revealed the site in a vision

• Explore the grounds: refectory, treasury, and museum (with the Holy Lance — optional)

• Time to light candles and experience live liturgical chanting (if a service is in progress)

Third Stop: Church of Saint Gayane (~11:40 – 12:10)

• Another 7th-century sacred site dedicated to Saint Gayane, companion of Hripsime

• Peaceful and serene atmosphere preserving the feel of a monastic sanctuary

• Short tour with historical and architectural insights

Fourth Stop: Ruins of Zvartnots Cathedral (~12:30 – 13:00)

• Magnificent ruins of a 7th-century cathedral destroyed by an earthquake

• Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site

• Unique circular design, remains of columns and mosaics

• Panoramic views of Mount Ararat (on clear days)

• Photo stop and commentary on Armenia’s Golden Age of architecture

13:00 – Departure back to Yerevan (~13:30 arrival)

• End of the tour

• Optional stop at a souvenir shop or café upon request