Private Half-day Echmiadzin Cathedral, Hripsime & Zvartnots Temple from Yerevan
Description
On this 3-4-hour tour visit Echmiadzin Mother Cathedral (from outside), the main cathedral of the Armenian Apostolic Church and the very first Christian cathedral in the World. It is listed among the UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Also see the church of St. Gayane and St. Hripsime churches that are among the three churches in Echmiadzin dedicated to the Christian women-martyrs escaped from Rome with their abbess Gayane. Both are listed among the UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The final stop is Zvartnots, the medieval temple of St. Gregory built in the 7th century. It was one of the tallest buildings of the time (45-49m). Today the ruins of the temple can be seen in Zvartnots. It is listed among the UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Tour Options
Itinerary
Mother Cathedral of Armenia, the 1st Christian church in the World. UNESCO heritage site Due to reconstruction works, Mother Cathedral is only possible to see from outside
St. Hripsime church is one of the famous ecclesiastical buildings in the city of Echmiadzin. This is the developed and perfect example of cross-cupola churches in Armenia. The church is notable with its architectural simplicity and loftiness. The tomb of the Christian martyr Virgin Hripsime is in the sacristy of the church. The site is included in UNESCO World Cultural Heritage List.
Not far from the Echmiadzin Cathedral, against the background of white peaks of Ararat, one can see the silhouette of the cupola of St. Gayane church. It was built in the 7th century and belongs to the domed-basilica style. According to the legend, this church was constructed over the tomb of Virgin Gayane, who had been martyred for preaching Christianity. The site is included in UNESCO World Cultural Heritage List.
This marvelous temple is a result of skillfulness and brave creativity of Armenian architects of the 7th century. Having been built on several columns, it was able to survive only till the 10th century. When in the beginning of the 20th century this site was being excavated, many specialists could hardly accept its reconstruction model, designed by famous Armenian architect Toros Toramanyan, as it was difficult to believe, that such a huge and complicated construction could have been built those days, and amazingly at that time one of the bas-relieves of St. Chapelle church in Paris came to prove Toramanyan's version; the bas-relief depicts Zvartnots temple with Noah's Ark and it looks like the model, represented by the architect. The site is included in UNESCO Cultural World Heritage List.
Highlights
What's included
Pickup Locations & Times
Please mention your pick up address
Traveller Ratings
Important Information
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Specialized infant seats are available
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Reviews(105)
I spend a beautiful and enjoyable day with our guide, Karen, and driver, Levon. Karen had a lot of knowledge and humor and was a pleasure to be around as he did a great job in guiding in English and Russian.
Thank you for the glowing review! We’ll be delighted to host you again in Armenia anytime!
We had a wonderful experience on our tour today with Raffi as our guide and Sasha as our driver. Both were incredibly friendly, professional, and made the entire day enjoyable from start to finish. Raffi was very knowledgeable and shared fascinating historical information at every stop, which really brought each site to life. He also went above and beyond by taking numerous photos of our family throughout the day, helping us capture some wonderful memories. The lunch stop was excellent, with delicious food that added to the overall experience. We thoroughly enjoyed the tour and appreciated the care and attention provided by both Raffi and Sasha. We highly recommend this tour to anyone looking for a memorable and well-organized experience!
Thanks a million for the lovely feedback! You are always welcome in Armenia!
Half-day experience was perfect for exploring the cathedrals and zvarnots ruins. Meline was very informative and gave us enough time to explore each of the locations at our own pace. Nothing was rushed.
Your positive review is much appreciated! Looking forward to hosting you in Armenia soon!
We had a fantastic time. Our driver Harut picked us up on time. He was great. Cold A/C. Our toor guide Marine was also great. Very polite lovely lady. All my expectations were met from start to finish. I highly recommend.
Your wonderful review brightened our day! It’s always our pleasure to ensure a great experience for our guests.
Very good experience, viva Armenia 🇦🇲🇦🇲❤️
Merci pour l'avis. Nous serons heureux de vous revoir en Arménie!
Great tour, Karen and Khachik were great all along the tour! Thank you :)
Your positive review is much appreciated! Looking forward to hosting you in Armenia soon!
Loved the tour! Both the program itself and the tour guide's story were great. To visit such special places, to touch the ancient shrines of the Armenian people -- it was an unforgettable experience. Thanks to Jasmine, the tour guide, and Haik, the driver!
Большое спасибо за теплые слова! Будем рады вновь принять Вас в Армении!
Tour organized very well, Meline exceptional guide and Avet top driver! Meline told us a lot of anecdotes and patiently accompanied us between the various monuments. Highly recommended!
Molte grazie per il gentile commento! Siete sempre i benvenuti in Armenia!
It was very well organised. We had an excellent guide named Mariam she was an amazing professional and person.
We’re so happy to hear you enjoyed your time with us! Hope to welcome you back to Armenia soon!
Good afternoon! On April 04, visited Lake Sevan, Dilijan and other attractions with Hyur! We had with us the most beautiful guide Arpi and the most wonderful driver Araik. Arpi, a professional in her field, spoke emotionally and with soul about the history of Armenia, learned many interesting facts. The atmosphere during the tour was friendly, time flew by unnoticed. Very happy with the tour, guide and driver! Thank you very much, Hyur!
Спасибо огромное за прекрасный отзыв! Для нас будет очень приятно принимать Вас в Армении и в будущем!
