Zvartnots Temple: the 7th-century architectural marvel near Yerevan

Zvartnots Temple is one of the most brilliant achievements of medieval Armenian architecture. Built in the 7th century and declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this archaeological site just 10 km from Yerevan impresses with its three-tiered circular design and a scale that rivalled the great temples of Byzantium.

Ruinas del Templo Zvartnots del siglo VII, Patrimonio UNESCO en Armenia
The ruins of Zvartnots Temple reveal the colossal scale of this 7th-century building.

History of Zvartnots Temple

Commissioned by Catholicos Nerses III the Builder between 641 and 661 AD, Zvartnots was designed to impress: a three-tiered circular structure rising over 45 metres high, richly decorated with sculptures, capitals featuring pomegranate and double-headed eagle motifs. It served as the seat of the Armenian patriarchate until its destruction, presumably by an earthquake in the 10th century.

Rediscovery and Excavations

For centuries, Zvartnots lay buried underground and forgotten. Its rediscovery and systematic excavation in the 20th century revealed the foundations and numerous decorative elements now on display at the site's museum. The recovered sculpted pieces allow a virtual reconstruction of the temple's original appearance.

The Zvartnots Museum

Next to the ruins, the on-site museum offers an exhibition featuring original capitals, decorative friezes and a scale model showing the temple as it looked in its heyday. The combined ruins-and-museum visit takes between 1 and 2 hours and is one of the most informative in all of Armenia.

Getting There from Yerevan

Zvartnots is 10 km west of Yerevan, on the road to Echmiadzin. You can get there by taxi, rental car or organised tour. It combines perfectly with a visit to Khor Virap and Echmiadzin Cathedral on the same day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is Zvartnots Temple a UNESCO World Heritage Site?

Because it is an exceptional example of 7th-century Armenian religious architecture, with a unique circular design that influenced Christian architecture across the Near East and the Caucasus.

How much does entry to Zvartnots Temple cost?

Entry to the archaeological site and museum is very affordable, around 1,500 Armenian drams (about €4). Opening hours are 10:00 to 18:00, closed on Mondays.

Can you combine Zvartnots with Echmiadzin?

Yes, they are just a few kilometres apart. Echmiadzin is the spiritual centre of Armenian Christianity and its cathedral is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. A combined visit takes a full day.