Ejmiatsin
Ejmiatsin
Geographical Position
Ejmiatsin is the fourth largest as well as the spiritual center of Armenia. It is where the seat of the Catholicos of Armenia is located. Ejmiatsin is the most populated city of the Armavir Province. It is found 18 km west of Yerevan. The city has an estimated population of 56, 757. Ejmiatsin is unique because it is the largest satellite city of Yerevan and the fourth largest of Armenia. The city is extremely close to the Zvartnots International Airport, eastern Armenia. Ejmiatsin is located in the Kasagh River basin. The city has a dry, continental climate. The city’s original and official name is Vagharshapat. Ejmiatsin is not only home to many architecturally magnificent churches, but beautiful homes, apartments, and hotels as well.
When Christianity became the religion of Armenia, Vagharshapat was called Ejmiatsin, after the name of the Mother Cathedral. Since 301, the Ejmiatsin has been known as Armenia’s spiritual center. It is home to one of the oldest religious organizations of the world, Armenian Catholicosate. Ejmiatsin is also where one of the oldest schools, established by Saint Mashtots, was located. The first manuscript library in Armenia, founded in 480 A.D. is also in Ejmiatsin.
The Cathedral of Holy Ejmiatsin was built between the years of 301 and 303. The imperial bell tower of the main entrance was built in the 17th century. This ancients cathedral has been erect for 1670 years and is the “…supreme Holy See of all Armenians.” Saint Hripsime is a masterpiece of Armenian architecture. It is considered a classic of the Medieval ages because of its perfect cruciform plan. Saint Gayane Church was built in 630. Shoghakat Church is a domed basilica completed in 1694.
General Description
When Christianity became the religion of Armenia, Vagharshapat was called Ejmiatsin, after the name of the Mother Cathedral. Since 301, the Ejmiatsin has been known as Armenia’s spiritual center. It is home to one of the oldest religious organizations of the world, Armenian Catholicosate. Ejmiatsin is also where one of the oldest schools, established by Saint Mashtots, was located. The first manuscript library in Armenia, founded in 480 A.D. is also in Ejmiatsin.
The Cathedral of Holy Ejmiatsin was built between the years of 301 and 303. The imperial bell tower of the main entrance was built in the 17th century. This ancients cathedral has been erect for 1670 years and is the supreme Holy See of all Armenians. Saint Hripsime is a masterpiece of Armenian architecture. It is considered a classic of the Medieval ages because of its perfect cruciform plan. Saint Gayane Church was built in 630. Shoghakat Church is a domed basilica completed in 1694.
