CHURCHES IN YEREVAN

Armenia is not only the oldest countries in the world but also the first country to adopt Christianity as its state religion back in 301 AD (that’s more than 1,715 years ago!).  There are more than 4,000 monasteries and churches in Armenia, from which 16 churches are in Yerevan. 

St Grigor Lusavorich

The St Grigor Lusavorich Cathedral is the symbol of the 1700th anniversary of the proclamation of Christianity as a state religion in Armenia as well as a tribute to St Gregory, the illuminator, who was responsible for introducing Christianity to Armenia. This church is one of the newest church in Armenia and was built in 2001.

The Katoghike St. Astvatstsin

The Katoghike St. Astvatstsin Church is one of the oldest churches in Yerevan which was constructed in 13 century. It is located in the Abovyan and Sayat-Nova streets. It was built after the big earthquake, during the years 1693-1695. It is considered one of the largest churches of old Yerevan.

Saint Sarkis Church

The St. Sarkis Church was the official seat of the Patriarch, whereas the monastery was the patriarchal inn for the guests. The St. Sarkis Church, together with the hermitage-monastery, was destroyed by the big earthquake of 1679. The present St. Sarkis Church was rebuilt once again during the period 1835-1842. With its interior and exterior architectural features this church was the least good-looking among all the churches of the Old City of Yerevan. Its unsightly look did not correspond to its significance as the seat of the Araratian Patriarchal Diocese. During the rule of His Holiness Vazken I Catholicos of Armenians, the church underwent basic renovations and improvements. Based on a plan drawn up by architect Rafayel Israelian in 1972, the reconstruction works of the St. Sarkis Church began and the character of the old building of the church was basically preserved. The construction of the bell tower of the St. Sarkis Vicarial Church was completed in 2000.

For more information about Yerevan churches visit this link.