Zvartnots Cathedral, Vagharshapat

Zvartnots Cathedral, a majestic relic of early medieval Armenian architecture, stands proudly in the city of Vagharshapat, near the capital Yerevan. Built in the 7th century, this once-stunning church was dedicated to St. Gregory the Illuminator and is now a treasured UNESCO World Heritage site, although it lies in ruins.

The cathedral was a masterpiece of Armenian engineer and architect Bishop Nerses the Builder, also known as Catholicos Nerses III. Its innovative design was a testament to the sophistication of early Christian architecture in Armenia. Zvartnots, meaning "celestial angels," was constructed from 641 to 653 and was the epitome of Armenia's ecclesiastical power and cultural creativity during its time.

Despite its current state, the remnants of Zvartnots Cathedral continue to captivate visitors with its unique circular design, which was quite uncommon for the period. The cathedral was a three-tiered structure that once soared to a height of nearly 45 meters, crowned by a dome supported by 32 columns. Its intricate carvings and columns are fine examples of medieval Armenian craftsmanship.

Tragically, Zvartnots stood for only 320 years before succumbing to the destructive forces of an earthquake in the 10th century. The ruins were buried and forgotten until their rediscovery in the early 20th century. Excavations have unearthed the cathedral's foundations and fragments of its decorative elements, offering a glimpse into its former glory.

Today, Zvartnots is a site of pilgrimage and tourism. Visitors can walk among the ruins, marveling at the architectural innovation and the enduring beauty of the carvings that have withstood the test of time. The site also offers a panoramic view of Mount Ararat, enhancing the spiritual and historical significance of this ancient wonder.