Khor Virap

Khor Virap Church

Khor Virap Church located in the Ararat plain from where is opened a fascinating view to the Mountains of Ararat - the place named in the Book of Genesis where Noah's Ark came to rest after the great flood (Genesis 8:4). “Khorvirap” means "deep pit" or "deep well". Saint Gregory the Illuminator, was initially imprisoned in a cave here for 14 years by King Tiridates III of Armenia. Saint Gregory subsequently became the king's religious mentor, and they led the proselytizing activity in the country. In the year 301, Armenia was the first country in the world to be declared a Christian nation. A chapel was initially built in 642 AD.