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Khor Virap Monastery

Region

Ararat

Distance from Yerevan

44.3 km

Type

Monastery/Church

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.

Interesting

facts about Khor Virap Monastery

Facts

In addition to being an important pilgrimage site, Khor Virap became a center of education and science from the 13th century onward, where prominent scholars such as Vardan Areveltsi, Esayi Nchetsi, Hovhannes Erzngatsi, Nerses Mshetsi, and others studied.

In 642, Catholicos Nerses III the Builder constructed the Zvartnots-style church of Saint George over the pit, which unfortunately was destroyed. The current church of Saint Gregory was later built (17th century) on those ruins.

The opening through which a widow threw bread to Gregory the Illuminator every day for 14 years is located on the eastern side of the pit's ceiling.

Weather in Ararat

The high season in Armenia lasts for a long time due to the pleasant climate conditions. Warm days in Armenia start in March and last until late autumn; winter is usually snowless and not long. The high precipitation season is variable. The tourist season for Khor Virap monastery depends on the weather conditions.

Sights

near Khor Virap Monastery

House-Museum of Vazgen Sargsyan

17 km

Yerevan Railway Station

41 km

Yerevan Pond

43 km

Abovyan Street

43 km