Cathedral and Church of Echmiatsin and the archeological sites of Zvartnots
The tourism sector is thriving and it has become far more than just amusement traveling. These days traveling has much more to credit. For example, sustainable tourism ensures the tourist enjoys and learns the sustainability of various cultures and people all over the world. Few others travel to visit the natural habitats and learn more about our ecosystem. And today we will be looking at some wonderful UNSECO heritage sites from the city of Armenia.
The archeological sites Of Echmiatsin and Zvartnots are predominantly dome and cross hall churches and ruins that have great influence in architectural development in the city of Armenia. The place is looked after and managed by UNSECO since 2000.
About the archeological sites of Echmiatsin and Zvartnots
To tell about Echmiatsin, it is one of the oldest churches in Armenia. It is located in the heart of the Echmiatsin Cathedral. While the Zvartnots is believed to be built in the 7th century. As per the old rumor, it is said that Zvartnots was built to suppress the majestic Echmiatsin Cathedral. The structure of Zvartnots resembled Syrian and Byzantine designs making it a curious case among architecture lovers. The Zvartnots is completely different from ruins and remains to explore and learn the past. It is an overwhelming situation for the people of Armenia to visit the place and an enthralling experience for the rest of the tourists from all over the world. Either way, let’s learn about the history of the place to know more and experience like never before.
History of the place
Well, when we dig history a bit is it quite relevant that both the Cathedral and Church of Echmiatsin and the archeological sites of Zvartnots were predominantly built in order to implant and establish the religious monopoly in the city of Armenia. Also through which the architectural development of the city was given prime importance.
To tell precisely the first ever kind of dome Church was built in the cathedral in the year AD 303 under the rule of King Tiridates. Thus marking the start of some wonderful structures erected across the city in no time. Most of the structures were implemented to protect the religious cause mainly Christianity.
Again, apart from architectural epitomes to explore there are several oil paintings and inscriptions that are noteworthy. The paintings that can be seen on the domes are painted in the year 1717. Since then there were more artists coming in to paint the church.
St Gayane Church was built in AD 630. The site is an amalgamation of the early church of Christianity and also marked Armenian architectural structure. The city’s inculcation towards the art and structural design is witnessed in the beautiful cathedrals and churches. Later on, through ages and centuries, renovation work was processed in a religious manner to prevent and perverse the World Heritage Site of Armenia.
The remains and excavation of Zvartnots were discovered in the 20th century. Most of the utensils, ruins from church and wineries were found from the place. These excavations marked centuries and ages.
Management of the UNESCO site
The management and protection of the Cathedral and Church of Echmiatsin archeological sites of Zvartnots are mainly taking care of by the UNSECO. However, State ownership also provides protection to Zvartnots to take care of certain segments. The historical and cultural part is taken care of by the State ownership.
Also, the Ministry and high-level authorities also make it a point to ensure full protection to both Echmiatsin and Zvartnots Sites. They have hired special authorities to do the needed. Also, the law related to the protection of the Sites is amended on a timely basis and kept in a stringent manner.
Mode of Transportation
There are buses from the main city of Armenia to reach Vagharshapat. From there you can mostly go around on foot to explore the city and the World Heritage Site Cathedral and Church of Echmiatsin and the archeological sites of Zvartnots. You can opt for a can or hire a taxi to reach Zvartnots which is located in the heart of the city Vagharshapat.
Best time to visit archeological sites of Echmiatsin and Zvartnots
Anytime is the best time to visit the place. However, it is recommended to book your trip prior to the visit. This will not only allow you to explore the place hustle-free but also ensures a splendid tour across the city. Prior booking will help you manage your tour timings properly. Also, there will be a booking fee collected to maintain the place and keep it neat and clean. Before visiting the place do take care of the dos and don’ts of the place. This is because you are visiting the most scared as well as endeared places of the world.
Visiting World Heritage Sites listed by UNSECO should be our motto. And why is that? Exploring such places helps the local government of the place keeps the place more protected and preserved. It also ensures tourists an avid knowledge about the places and their culture and tradition, particularly the history. Also, it helps in promoting the local cause and helps then to preserve the lands natural and manmade amazing around the world. So let Cathedral and Church of Echmiatsin and the archeological sites of Zvartnots be on your next on the travel list. Till then…
Bon Voyage!
