Etchmiadzin Cathedralâs Spiritual Heart
by Dinda.Pratiwi
Oct 6, 2025
In Armenia, you can travel through a thousand years of history and explore five major World Heritage sites! The first stop is the Echmiadzin Cathedral, the world's oldest cathedral built in 303 AD. It is the headquarters of the Armenian Apostolic Church and is known as the "Vatican of Armenia." The cathedral's treasury houses precious relics such as fragments of Noah's Ark and the Holy Lance, making you feel as if you are immersed in the river of history. Its four-lobed cross-shaped dome structure combines Byzantine and Armenian styles, creating a unique charm. Next, head to the Zvartnots Archaeological Site, the ruins of a 7th-century circular church that showcase the evolution of Armenian domed four-lobed churches. The three-tiered dome structure, built with colorful tuff stone, influenced later Byzantine church designs. Finally, visit Khor Virap Monastery, the best spot to view Mount Ararat and the closest location to where Noah's Ark is said to have landed. Come to Armenia and embark on a cultural journey through a thousand years!
ðKhor Virap Monastery
This is the perfect place to view Mount Ararat, the biblical landing site of Noah's Ark! The monastery beneath the snowy mountain is so sacred it leaves you speechless. Standing here, you truly understand the power of faith.
ðEchmiadzin Cathedral
The world's oldest official cathedral, known as the "Vatican of Armenia." The most stunning part is the treasury, which holds the legendary fragments of Noah's Ark and the Holy Lance that pierced Jesus! Seeing them in person gives you goosebumps!
ðGeghard Monastery
A World Cultural Heritage site and an extraordinary rock-cut church! Some parts of the building are entirely carved out of the mountain, a masterpiece of craftsmanship. When the ancient duduk flute sounds in the cave, its ethereal melody can instantly carry your soul away.
ðGarni Temple
One moment you are in a Christian holy place, the next you are transported to ancient Rome! This is the only surviving Greco-Roman temple in the former Soviet Union, with its dark basalt standing proudly under the sun.
This journey is a profound dialogue with history and faith at every step.
Post by Trip.Pulse | Oct 24, 2025














