Khor Virap

Khor Virap is the most iconic and photographed monastery in Armenia, not for the buildings themselves but for their breathtaking setting: the historic monastery sits on a small hill on the plain south of Yerevan, directly before the majestic, snow-capped twin peaks of Mount Ararat, the biblical mountain and enduring symbol of the Armenian nation, rising just across the closed border. Deeply significant as the place where Armenia's first Christian saint was imprisoned, it offers the country's definitive view.

History

The hill stands in the territory of ancient Artashat, made the capital by King Artashes I around 180 BC, and until a chapel was built it served as a royal prison; here King Tiridates III had Gregory the Illuminator thrown into a deep pit, where he survived for 13 years before becoming the king's spiritual guide, and in 301 Armenia became the first country to adopt Christianity. Nerses III the Builder raised a first chapel on the site in 642, it was rebuilt many times, and in 1662 the larger church of St Astvatsatsin was built (Wikipedia, Khor Virap).

What to look for

• The view of Ararat - the monastery before the twin peaks of Ararat.
• The monastery - the historic church and its buildings.
• The pit - the deep pit where Gregory the Illuminator was imprisoned.
• The vineyards - the plain and vineyards of the Ararat valley.

When to go

Spring and autumn for the mildest weather and the best chance of a clear view of Ararat, which is often veiled in haze or cloud, especially later in the day; go early in the morning for the clearest sight of the peaks, snow-capped and glorious.

What to expect

The famous view of Ararat depends entirely on clear weather, and the peaks are frequently hidden by haze or cloud, especially in summer and later in the day, so an early morning and a little luck are needed for the definitive shot. The monastery itself is modest; the setting is everything. Poignantly, Ararat itself lies across the closed Turkish border. On a clear morning, the view is unforgettable.

Nearby

Yerevan and the Ararat valley vineyards are within reach.

Key facts