Echmiadzin (Hripsime, Gayane, Mother Cathedral) and Zvartnots Temple

4.2
(5 reviews)

Show all photos
4 to 5 hours (approximately)

Discover Armenia’s spiritual and architectural heritage on this enriching tour. Begin at Echmiadzin, the religious heart of Armenia and home to the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin, one of the world's oldest Christian cathedrals. Explore the stunning Saint Hripsime and Saint Gayane Churches, both UNESCO-listed sites known for their beautiful Armenian architecture and historical significance.

Continue to the majestic Zvartnots Temple, an awe-inspiring 7th-century cathedral now in ruins, offering a glimpse into Armenia’s ancient past with its intricate stonework and panoramic views of Mount Ararat.

This tour is ideal for history enthusiasts, culture lovers, and those seeking to explore Armenia’s deep Christian roots and architectural wonders.

What's Included

Local guide
Professional guide
Bottled water
Lunch

Meeting and pickup

Meeting point

In front of Marriott Hotel

End point
This activity ends back at the meeting point.

Itinerary

Duration: 4 to 5 hours (approximately)
  • 1
    Republic Square

    Start and End point

    15 minutes • Admission ticket free
  • 2
    Saint Hripsime Church

    Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Features the classic Armenian cruciform (cross-shaped) design with a dome and massive stone walls.

    30 minutes • Admission ticket free
  • 3
    Saint Gayane Church

    Features a rectangular basilica design with a dome, massive stone walls, and beautifully carved arches. Saint Gayane was one of the Christian virgins who fled the Roman Empire with Saint Hripsime

    30 minutes • Admission ticket free
  • 4
    Etchmiadzin Monastery

    Echmiadzin Cathedral is the mother church of the Armenian Apostolic Church and one of the oldest cathedrals in the world. Located in Vagharshapat, it is the religious center of Armenia and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built in 301–303 AD by Saint Gregory the Illuminator, after Armenia became the first nation to adopt Christianity as its state religion.

    1 hour • Admission ticket free
  • 5
    Zvartnots Temple

    UNESCO World Heritage Site, Recognized for its unique architecture and historical value, alongside Echmiadzin Cathedral, Saint Hripsime, and Saint Gayane Churches. Unlike traditional Armenian churches, Zvartnots had a circular, three-tiered structure, influenced by Byzantine and Armenian designs.

    45 minutes • Admission ticket included

Additional info

  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Children must be accompanied by an adult
Supplied by Tatev Travel Agency

Tags

Day Trips
Half-day Tours
Bus Tours
Cultural Tours
Historical Tours
Likely to Sell Out
Religious Tours
Car Tours
Short term availability

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Show more

Rating

4.2 Based on 5 5 reviews
5 stars
4
4 stars
0
3 stars
0
2 stars
0
1 star
1
Likely to sell out
from per person
Was {{currencySymbol}}{{ summaryFromPriceBeforeDiscount }}
Check availability