Zvartnots Cathedral

Region

Armavir

Distance from Yerevan

20.5 km

Type

Monastery/Church

Zvartnots Cathedral is one of the unique monuments of Armenian architecture and the Armenian people, encapsulating the distinct features and knowledge of Armenian architectural tradition. The cathedral is located on the outskirts of Vagharshapat city, Armavir Province. The name “Zvartnots” appears only in the writings of the historian Sebeos; all other historians refer to the cathedral as St. Gregory. Zvartnots Cathedral is a 7th-century structure, yet it incorporates architectural solutions characteristic of the 4th century. With its style and design, the cathedral had a significant influence on the architecture of later centuries. The Byzantine Emperor Constans II was present at the cathedral's consecration ceremony, reflecting the political climate of the time. The cathedral was uncovered by the renowned architect Toros Toramanian, who proposed that Zvartnots was 45 meters high, a three-story, centrally planned, domed structure.