The Main Cathedral of Ecmiadzin and other Ejmiatsin, Armenia Things to Do Tips

Impossible to miss when coming here, the Cathedral is an incredibly beautiful structure both inside and out.
The first cathedral at Echmiadzin was in two years, between 301-303 AD. Supposedly Christ descended to the Ararat Valley and said that a church must be built in this location.
The Altar at the centre of the Cathedral is the spot of Christ's appearance. The name Echmiadzin, means where Christ descended, in Armenian.
Inside, there is a small museum at the rear of the church. There you will see a 'spear' head, which supposedly was from the spear used to pierce the body of Christ during the Crucifixion. It looks in remarkably good condition. Judge for yourself!

Leave a Comment

Address: Echmiadzin Holy See
Directions: Only about 15kms from Yerevan. Easy to get a taxi and see in a few hours to 1/2 a day.
Website: http://www.tacentral.com/echmiadzin/efs.htm

Inside the Echmiadzin compound you will see various intricate examples of Khachkar from throughout Armenian history. Khachkar translates as "cross rock" or "rock of the cross". They are a unique expression- brilliantly ornamental and decorative, they are etched from stone.
A Khackhar is a monument which can symbolise many reasons whether personal or otherwise. Evolved from the Armenians Christian faith, they traditionally have been erected for church decoration, gravestones, and even to mark military victories or other events of historical significance.
The website below is an excellent map of the compound and shows you the fine examples of Khachkar that are kept here.

Leave a Comment

Address: Inside the Echmiadzin Holy City Compound
Website: http://www.tacentral.com/echmiadzin/map_ech_complex.htm