Language/Armenian/Culture/Armenian-Churches-and-Monasteries

Armenian → Culture → Armenian Churches and Monasteries

Armenian Churches and Monasteries are an essential part of Armenian culture and history. They are also significant in the development of Armenian architecture, painting, and literature. In this lesson, we will explore some of the most famous Armenian Churches and Monasteries and discuss their historical and cultural significance.

Etchmiadzin Cathedral

Located in the city of Vagharshapat, Etchmiadzin Cathedral is considered the spiritual center of the Armenian Apostolic Church. The cathedral was built by Saint Gregory the Illuminator in the early 4th century, making it the oldest cathedral in the world. Its current structure was built in the 5th century and underwent several renovations throughout the centuries. The cathedral is also famous for housing the Holy Lance, which was used to pierce Jesus's side during his crucifixion.

Armenian	Pronunciation	English
Վաղարշապատ	Vagh-aar-shaa-pat	Vagharshapat

Geghard Monastery

Located 23 kilometers from Yerevan, Geghard Monastery is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that was founded in the 4th century. The monastery was built into a cave and was later expanded in the 13th century. It is famous for its rock-carved architecture, which is an outstanding example of Armenian medieval architecture. The name of the monastery "Geghard" means "spear" in Armenian and refers to the spear that was used to wound Jesus during his crucifixion.

Armenian	Pronunciation	English
Գեղարդ	Geh-ghard	Geghard

Tatev Monastery

Located in the Syunik Province of Armenia, Tatev Monastery is a 9th-century Armenian Apostolic monastery. The monastery played a significant role in the political and cultural life of medieval Armenia. The main church of the monastery, the Church of St. Peter and Paul, was built in the 9th century and was destroyed several times throughout history. The current structure was rebuilt in the 19th century.

Armenian	Pronunciation	English
Տաթև	Ta-tev	Tatev

Hor Virap Monastery

Located near the Turkish border, Hor Virap Monastery is a pilgrimage site in Armenia. It was built in the 17th century and is famous for its beautiful architecture and stunning surroundings. This monastery is best known for its location, where Saint Gregory the Illuminator was imprisoned for 13 years before he converted King Tiridates III to Christianity. Visitors can climb down into the underground chamber where Saint Gregory was imprisoned.

Armenian	Pronunciation	English
Հոռ Վիրապ	Hor Virap	Hor Virap

Armenian Churches and Monasteries are an integral part of Armenian cultural heritage. They are not only places of worship but also significant examples of Armenian architecture, history, and culture. By learning about these sites, we can gain insight into the development of Armenian civilization and appreciate its beauty and complexity.

Related Lessons

• Armenian Pop Music
• Armenian Holidays and Festivals
• Armenian Cinema
• Armenian Music and Arts
• Traditional Armenian Dances
• Armenian Ceramics and Pottery
• Modern Armenian Literature
• Armenians in Diaspora
• Armenian National Instruments

Sources

• Armenian cultural heritage in Turkey - Wikipedia
• US Researchers Confirm 98% of Cultural Armenian Heritage Sites ...
• Armenian Monastic Ensembles of Iran - Wikipedia