Recognised as Armenia’s spiritual capital, and the centre of the Armenian Apostolic Church, Vagharshapat (or Etchmiadzin) has many UNESCO listed religious buildings and is an easy day trip or half day trip from Yerevan. This guide will give you an idea of all the top spots to visit, where to eat, how to get there, and our accommodation recommendation if you fancied extending your visit to more than just a day trip from Yerevan.

Religious Spots to Visit in Vagharshapat

Etchmiadzin Cathedral – UNESCO listed

Etchmiadzin Cathedral is the world’s oldest cathedral, which is mind-blowing! The original church built at this site was from 300 AD, not long after Armenia declared itself a Christian country (the first country in the world to do so). 

Of course, when we visited, it was closed. But we could still see all the intricate detailing on the outside and around the door ways. Inside, however, are several relics that are vitally important to the Apostolic Armenian Church. Amongst the relics is the spear believed to have wounded Jesus at his crucifixion, which was housed at Geghard Monastery until the 1600s, giving the monastery its name (Geghard means ‘spear’ in Armenian.) 

The cathedral is situated in the middle of what is known as the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin, a large complex with several religious buildings, new and really really old. The Mother See is the centre and headquarters of the Apostolic Armenian Church, much like the Holy See is the centre and headquarters of the Roman Catholic Church. While you’re in this area, check out the other religious buildings and sculptures around the complex, such as Holy Archangels Church.

St. Hripsime – UNESCO listed

One of the oldest churches in Armenia, St. Hripsime Church is understood to date back to the early 7th century. It is believed that Saint Hripsime was a beautiful Christian nun who fled to Armenia to escape the advances of Roman Emperor Diocletian. The emperor sent informed the Pagan King of Armenia about her and her beauty. When she arrived in Armenia and rejected the King’s advances too, it was arranged for her to be killed.  The church is on the site of where she was killed and where her remains were later housed in a mausoleum.

Saint Gayane – UNESCO listed

Saint Gayane (or Kayane) fled to Armenia from Rome with Saint Hripsime. When Hripisime rejected his advances, he turned to Gayane which resulted in a similar rejection. She was killed at the site where the church now stands.

Shoghakat Church – UNESCO listed

Another nun fled with Gayane and Hripsime, however, her name remains unknown. Shoghakat literally means ‘ray of light’ and was built to remember others killed during the period of time of converting the country to Christianity.

Old Cemetery

Not a ‘site’ that you would see recommended when visiting Vagharshapat, but we thought it was fascinating. Within the religious complex as you walk towards St. Gayane Church, you can capture a photo of ancient gravestones in the foreground, with the top of St. Gayane Church, and Mount Ararat in the background.

Where to Eat in Vagharshapat

Agape Refectory

We ordered several dishes here and while they were nice, we have had better food elsewhere in the country. However, you don’t come here for the food; come here for the building and the history. It almost feels like you’re walking into a wine cellar. The décor is oldy woldy medieval and the high domed ceilings are fascinating.

Բուխարի – Food court

If you fancy a less pricey meal that is arguably better, head to the food court just out of the main part of town. There are loads of options for local food as well as things like pizzas. Again, nothing to write home about, but if you want something cheap and cheerful, this is the spot.

Ցորեն սրճարան – Cafe and pasta

This place is cute! It’s very small and there are only a few tables, but it’s bright and has lovely décor. We had a pesto spaghetti and bruschetta which were surprisingly good.

How to Get to Vagharshapat

Get to Kilikia bus station in Yerevan and jump on bus number 203. It leaves every 30 minutes and is a dead easy journey. It will take no more than 30 minutes to drive right to the centre of Vagharshapat, and it cost us 300 AMD in 2023.

To get back, just hang around at the same spot you were dropped off, and jump on the next 203.

For more info on taking public transport in Armenia, take a look at this post.

Where to Stay in Vagharshapat

If you want to make your visit longer than just a day trip from Yerevan, B&B Artson is a beautiful and affordable homestay just a short walk away from the main centre. It has comfortable rooms with private bathrooms, a communal area with cooking facilities, and outdoor shared seating overlooking a garden. There is also a shy dog called Mia who is lovely!