Zvartnots Cathedral

According to the Armenian historian Sebeos, it was built under Catholicos Nerses III the Builder in 640–650, who planned to move his residence from Dvin to Vagharshapat. Nerses III is also credited with the construction of buildings in Dvin and Khor Virap and with a church similar to Zvartnots in his native village of Ishkhan, in Tayk. The consecration ceremony of the colossal cathedral was attended by the Byzantine emperor Constantine II, who wished to build a similar one in Constantinople. In the 10th century, the cathedral collapsed during an earthquake because of the weakness of the joints of the supports of the second tier. The ruins of Zvartnots were uncovered by excavations in 1901–1907. By now the first tier has been almost entirely reconstructed. Zvartnots Cathedral holds great religious significance for the Armenian people. It is considered a place of worship and prayer, and it also attracts tourists with its historical and cultural value. In 2000 the cathedral was included in the UNESCO World Heritage List as part of the Armenian church architecture of Etchmiadzin and its surroundings. Literally, Zvartnots means "Watching Angels". Armenia's main airport, near Yerevan, is also named after the cathedral. Among other things, the ruins of Zvartnots Cathedral are a favorite spot for newlyweds to hold wedding photo shoots. In clear weather, the ruins frame a majestic view of the legendary Mount Ararat, especially at sunset. In hot weather it is better to come here either early in the morning or at sunset in the evening, since it is very hot during the day. Entry to the cathedral complex costs 1,500 AMD. Children under 7 are free. For a professional camera or a drone you will have to pay an additional 5,000 AMD.