⛪ Khor Virap Monastery
Armenia
About This Sacred Site
Khor Virap (Deep Dungeon) is one of the most important pilgrimage sites in Armenia, located near the Turkish border with a dramatic backdrop of Mount Ararat. The monastery marks the site where St. Gregory the Illuminator was imprisoned for 13 years in a deep pit before converting King Tiridates III to Christianity in 301 CE, making Armenia the first officially Christian nation. The underground dungeon where Gregory was held can still be visited. The monastery's silhouette against Mount Ararat is one of the most iconic images of Armenia.
Key Facts
- •St. Gregory the Illuminator was imprisoned here for 13 years
- •The conversion led Armenia to become the first Christian nation in 301 CE
- •The underground dungeon can still be visited
- •Offers iconic views of Mount Ararat across the Turkish border
- •One of the most photographed sites in Armenia
Location
Coordinates: 39.8783, 44.5761
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