Khor Virap Monastery

On the left bank of the Araks River lies Khor Virap, the history of which is closely connected with the period when Christianity was adopted as the state religion in Armenia. The ""Virap"" was a deep pit filled with snakes, scorpions, and poisonous insects, where the condemned were thrown. According to the historian Agathangelos, King Tiridates III the Great persecuted Christians, among whom was Gregory the Illuminator. By the king's order, Gregory was thrown into the royal dungeon pit in Artashat, where he spent about 14 years. During this time, Tiridates III the Great fell seriously ill, and according to his sister's dream, only Gregory the Illuminator could heal him. By the king's command, Gregory was released, he healed the king, and afterward, with the king’s support, Christianity was proclaimed the state religion. The Khor Virap monastic complex consists of the churches of Saint Gregory and Holy Mother of God. Khor Virap is an excellent example of a monastery-fortress, combining religious and defensive structures.