Sacred site · Armenia
Etchmiadzin Cathedral
Mother church of Armenia built in the 4th century
About Etchmiadzin Cathedral
Echmiatsin Cathedral is the mother church of the Armenian Apostolic Church, located in the city dually known as Echmiatsin (Ejmiatsin) and Vagharshapat, Armenia. Constructed at the turn of the fourth century, it is usually considered the first cathedral built in ancient Armenia, and often regarded as the oldest cathedral in the world. The original Echmiatsin church was built in the early fourth century—between 301 and 303 according to tradition—by Armenia's patron saint Gregory the Illuminator, following the adoption of Christianity as a state religion by King Tiridates III. It was built over a pagan temple, symbolizing the conversion from paganism to Christianity. The core of the current building was built in 483/4 by Vahan Mamikonian after the cathedral was severely damaged in a Persian invasion.
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Best time to visit
Best time to go: March, September – October
Midday highs, based on last year's weather. Green months have comfortable temperatures and few rainy days.
On the map
Famous places nearby
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Ready-made plans nearby
Questions about Etchmiadzin Cathedral
Where is Etchmiadzin Cathedral?
Etchmiadzin Cathedral is in Armenia. The nearest city is Ashtarak, about 16 km away.
When is the best time to visit Etchmiadzin Cathedral?
The most comfortable months to visit Etchmiadzin Cathedral are March, September – October: pleasant temperatures and few rainy days, based on last year's weather.
Is there a ready-made trip plan near Etchmiadzin Cathedral?
Yes. The 2-day Yerevan plan is about 19 km away. You can open it and change it as you like.
How can I plan a trip to Etchmiadzin Cathedral?
Tap "Plan a trip here" and Triptime AI builds a free day-by-day plan around Etchmiadzin Cathedral that you can edit on the map.
More famous places in Armenia
Triptime AI builds a free day-by-day plan around Etchmiadzin Cathedral: what to see nearby, where to eat and where to stay.
Yerevan travel guide