The oldest church in Christianity
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Echmiadzin Cathedral is located in Armenia and is very important for Christianity. It is the seat of the Armenian Apostolic Church, the oldest in the world, and is considered a World Heritage Site, founded in the 1st century. Armenia was the first country to adopt Christianity as its official religion in 301. The cathedral was built around 303, becoming the first Christian cathedral in the world.
Over time, the cathedral has undergone several reforms and restorations to maintain its original essence. The first reconstruction was in 484. Only the south and west walls are from the 4th century, the rest is from the 17th century. The dome was completed in 1627, the tower in 1658, and the lantern in 1683.
This World Heritage Site is the spiritual heart of Armenia and is as important as the Vatican. The complex includes churches such as Saint Hripsime and Saint Gayane, from the 7th century, which were restored in the 17th century.
The Church of Saint Hripsime is a jewel of Armenian architecture and has a rich and fascinating history. The church is dedicated to Saint Hripsime, a Roman virgin who, along with 37 other women, fled to Armenia to escape persecution. According to legend, Hripsime was martyred by King Tiridates III of Armenia for rejecting his advances, which led to the king’s conversion to Christianity.
The Church of Saint Gayane is a classic example of Armenian architecture of the time, with a basilica-shaped structure and a central dome. Its simple and elegant design has influenced many other Armenian churches.
History of Echmiadzin Cathedral
Christianity came to Armenia in the 1st century, thanks to the apostles Bartholomew and Thaddeus. During the reign of Tiridates III, Armenia became the first country with official Christianity in 301 AD. In 2001, a commemorative 50,000 dram banknote, the highest value until then, was issued.
Reforms and Reconstructions Over the Centuries
The Mother Cathedral of Echmiadzin has undergone several reforms and reconstructions over the centuries. The first major reconstruction was in the year 484. In the 17th century, reforms were carried out that gave the cathedral its current appearance, including the dome, tower, and lantern.
Echmiadzin Cathedral
| Año | Evento |
|---|---|
| 301 | Armenia adopts Christianity as the official religion |
| 303 | Construction of Echmiadzin Cathedral |
| 484 | First significant reconstruction of the cathedral |
| Siglo XVII | Intense reforms giving the cathedral its current appearance |
| 2000 | Echmiadzin Cathedral is declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site |
Echmiadzin Cathedral is a testament to the history of Christianity in Armenia. It also symbolizes the resilience and perseverance of the Armenian people.
Architecture and Art of Echmiadzin Cathedral
The cathedral shows the style of Armenian church with a central dome and cruciform shape, popular from the 5th to 7th centuries. This style is characterized by its delicate forms, as in the 17th-century Saint Gayane Church.
| Building | Construction Date | Outstanding Features |
|---|---|---|
| Echmiadzin Cathedral | 301-303 A.D | Central dome, cruciform plan |
| Saint Hripsime Church | 618 A.D | Cruciform plan with central dome, original structure maintained |
| Saint Gayane Church | 630 A.D. | Slim and delicate proportions |
The Persian frescoes in the cathedral showcase Armenian and Persian culture. These frescoes, along with other artistic elements, display the cathedral’s cultural richness.
Outstanding Examples of Armenian Christian Sculpture
The mother cathedral has works of Armenian Christian sculpture, such as the relief of Saint Paul and Saint Thecla. These pieces demonstrate the skill of Armenian artists.
Relics and Treasures of Echmiadzin Cathedral
It is the first Christian cathedral in the world, built in the 4th century. Its Treasury houses very important relics for the Christian faith. Among them are the Holy Lance, the hand of Saint Gregory the Illuminator, and a piece of wood from Noah’s Ark.
The Holy Lance is highly valued. According to tradition, it was used by Longinus to pierce Christ’s side. It is now kept in the Treasury of Echmiadzin Cathedral, along with other important relics.
The hand of Saint Gregory the Illuminator is another highly revered relic. He was the founder and patron saint of the Armenian Apostolic Church. His hand is preserved in the cathedral’s Treasury as a symbol of his significance.
Christian relics, along with other treasures such as frescoes and stained glass, make the Cathedral an important place for Christians. It is a destination for pilgrimage and religious tourism.
Frequently Asked Questions:
When was Echmiadzin Cathedral built?
Echmiadzin Cathedral was built around the year 303. This was shortly after Armenia became the first country to adopt Christianity as its official religion in 301.
What important relics does Echmiadzin Cathedral hold?
Echmiadzin Cathedral holds three important Christian relics. Among them are the Lance of Longinus, the hand of Saint Gregory the Illuminator, and a fragment of wood from Noah’s Ark.
Who founded the Armenian Apostolic Church?
The Armenian Apostolic Church was founded by the apostles Bartholomew and Thaddeus in the 1st century. It is the oldest national church in the world.
What architectural style does Echmiadzin Cathedral feature?
The mother Cathedral combines elements of traditional Armenian architecture with influences from other cultures. Its interior features Persian-style frescoes.
When was Echmiadzin Cathedral declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site?
Echmiadzin Cathedral was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the year 2000. This was alongside the archaeological site of Zvartnots.
Why is it important to visit Echmiadzin Cathedral?
Visiting Echmiadzin Cathedral is essential for those traveling to Armenia. It offers a unique experience that combines history, art, architecture, and spirituality. It is the center of the Armenian Apostolic Church and the world’s first Christian cathedral.
