Every nation has its own sanctuaries and revered places. For Armenians worldwide, for almost two thousand years, such a place has been the ancient Echmiadzin, located on the picturesque Ararat Plain.
Historical Heritage
The history of this city begins with the ancient settlement of Vardkesavan, founded in the 2nd century BC. Later, at the beginning of the 2nd century AD, King Vagharshak I (117-140 AD) of Greater Armenia built his capital here, naming it Vagharshapat after himself.
Role of Religion
In this land, faith has always been and remains the main bulwark of statehood, a symbol of unity and prosperity for the people. Armenia was the first country in the world to proclaim Christianity as its state religion in 301 AD.
A Sacred Place
Since then, Echmiadzin has become a sacred place for all believers – the cultural, spiritual, and civilizational heart of the country. According to legend, it was here that Saint Gregory the Illuminator – the first Catholicos of all Armenians, had a prophetic vision: Christ descended from heaven and pointed with a golden hammer to the place where a church should be built.
Creation of the Mother Cathedral of Echmiadzin
Thus, in 301 AD, King Trdat III founded the Mother Cathedral of Echmiadzin, which in Armenian means “the Only Begotten descended.” It is one of the oldest churches in world history. In 1945, the city was renamed in honor of the church.
Religious Structures
Over time, new religious structures arose around the cathedral: the Church of Saint Hripsime (618 AD), the Basilica of Saint Gayane (630 AD), and the Church of Saint Shoghakat (1634 AD).
The Legend of Saint Hripsime
According to legend, these virgins were among the first Christians in Armenia. King Trdat III, still a pagan at the time, desired the beautiful Hripsime, but she was virtuous and unyielding. In anger, the king ordered that she and her faithful companions be stoned to death. Saint Gregory the Illuminator healed the king, after which Trdat III repented and embraced Christianity, built Echmiadzin, and allowed the people to be baptized.
Modern Times
Today, Echmiadzin is the cornerstone of the Armenian Apostolic Church and the residence of the patriarch. In 1992, the city was officially given back its ancient name, Vagharshapat, but many still use the old name. In 2000, the Mother Cathedral was included in the UNESCO World Heritage list.
Relics and Importance of Visit
Echmiadzin houses unique relics, such as a piece of the cross on which Christ was crucified and a fragment of Noah’s Ark. Visiting Armenia without seeing Echmiadzin is like not visiting the country at all. Anyone interested in the culture and history of this unique nation should visit this city, located 20 km west of Yerevan, to truly feel the spirit of this ancient people.
