Some places have unique history behind it. They are worth exploring as they carry significant element of historicity and excitement with it. You need to go down the lane in the place itself to experience the uniqueness of the place and the reason for which it is famous for long now. You know that Armenia is full of great historical elements and in this article we are going to see one more such place from Armenia. This is Khor Virap, a monastery located in Ararat plain in Armenia. The monastery is in existence for centuries. This is quite right to say that when you are on your Armenia Tour Packages and exploring some great places there, do include Khor Virap if it is already not there in your itinerary. Why? Let us know together.
Khor Virap is located on hillock in Pokr Vedi, the village which is 4 KM away from the main highway there. This is just 30 KM from Yerevan, the capital and most happening city of Armenia. What is most interesting thing about Khor Virap is its history. Khor Virap was used as royal prison. Khor Virap is the place where Gregory Lusavorich was held in a cell for 13 years at the bottom of pit dug into an Armenian hillock. He survived for 13 years because a local woman who was a Christian fed her. Gregory Lusavorich was kept in the cell at the bottom of pit dug into the hill by king Tiridates III who ruled over Armenia. Gregory Lusavorich who was an assistant of the king preached Christianity while king Tiridates followed Pagan religion. The king did not like having an adviser with a different religion. Then he subjected Gregory to severe torture. When king got the news that Gregory’s father was responsible for the murder of king’s father, the king ordered to tie the hands and legs of Gregory and throw him into the dark dungeon of Khor Virap to die. Everyone believed that Gregory died within few days of his imprisonment. But he survived because of local woman feeding him secretly. After 13 years Gregory healed a king Tiridates who had gone mad after a girl and killed many Christians. Then Gregory started preaching the king and his army Christianity. Gregory became the Bishop of Caesarea and remained in service of king until 314 AD. So this is the person for which Khor Virap got recognition in the history.
Now you know why Khor Virap is special. One reason is this is the place where Saint Gregory was imprisoned for 13 years before he cured king Tiridates of a disease. Today, you can go down the steps into the pit where Gregory spend 13 years in dark. This was the reason why the king and Armenia converted into the first official Christian nation in the world in early 3rd century. Another reason is that this is a monastery situated in Ararat Plain in Armenia nearing the border of Turkey. The monastery is surrounded by green pasture lands and vineyards within the Ararat plain and is in view of Mount Ararat. So this beautiful monastery also sits a little hill in otherwise flat Ararat valley. Even today Khor Virap Monastery is a holy site of the Armenian Apostolic Church and stands as an important pilgrimage location which locals often visit for a baptism or after a wedding to perform a “matagh” or “sacrifice”. The natural beauty of the Khor Virap is constituted by the fact that the walled, religious complex stands before the snow-capped flanks of Mount Ararat, and this offers a spectacular view of the mountain and cutting a striking silhouette in and of itself to the every visitor here.
You can reach Khor Virap from Yerevan by train, bus and taxi. The monastery and surrounding vineyards are worth exploring when you are on your Yerevan tour package.
Travel Admin
Coments (8)
Regarding traveling the world, two international regions that come to Indians more randomly are Euro...
Read MoreTravel Admin
Coments (8)
Eastern Europe is a treasure trove of a different culture, rich in history, fine architecture, and n...
Read MoreTravel Admin
Coments (8)
If you dream of having a day filled with amazing views of nature and enjoying Georgian regions, visi...
Read MoreTravel Admin
Coments (8)
Georgia is one of the most attractive countries and has the most charming capital, Tbilisi. It is kn...
Read MoreTravel Admin
Coments (8)
The Best Summer Destinations in the World offer something for every kind of traveler, and these are...
Read MoreTravel Admin
Coments (8)
Nestled away in the Gulf of Thailand, Phu Quoc Island is a dream getaway of golden beaches, lush jun...
Read MoreTravel Admin
Coments (8)
Uzbekistan is a historical gem of Central Asia. It brims with medieval cities, cultural landmarks, a...
Read MoreTravel Admin
Coments (8)
Traveling in new countries is always interesting, but one of the biggest obstacles to Indian travele...
Read MoreTravel Admin
Coments (8)
Baku, the capital of Azerbaijan, is one of the most vibrant cities to explore in Azerbaijan. The cit...
Read MoreTravel Admin
Coments (8)
As the summer season begins, India braces for an exciting summer break with multiple tourist destina...
Read MoreTravel Admin
Coments (8)
Are you planning a trip to Uzbekistan and want to know everything about it? Our comprehensive Uzbeki...
Read MoreTravel Admin
Coments (8)
Baku, the treasure trove of Azerbaijan, is the hottest tourist destination for globetrotters. Partic...
Read MoreTravel Admin
Coments (8)
Isn’t a Central Asia visa a dream for many travelers who wish to explore the region’s untouched trea...
Read MoreTravel Admin
Coments (8)
This travel guide can help travelers map out their vacation planning by jotting down the places they...
Read MoreTravel Admin
Coments (8)
Turkey has many untouched wonders and hidden gems to explore. Moreover, there are an array of advent...
Read MoreTravel Admin
Coments (8)
Every season has its unique charm and offerings that lure tourists from all over the world. Spring s...
Read MoreTravel Admin
Coments (8)
Indian citizens with a valid Japan visa can explore other destinations in the world without getting...
Read MoreTravel Admin
Coments (8)
Armenia is a must-visit destination, with ancient monasteries, snow-covered Caucasus mountain peaks,...
Read MoreTravel Admin
Coments (8)
If you are wondering to know the least expensive countries to go to from India. From the seaside vie...
Read MoreTravel Admin
Coments (8)
Kyrgyzstan is an unmatched destination that you must visit. Before heading here, you should check ou...
Read MoreTravel Admin
Coments (8)
Da Nang is a scenic coastal city in Vietnam with spectacular beaches, Buddhist pagodas, deep-rooted...
Read MoreTravel Admin
Coments (8)
Indian travelers' dream of traveling to foreign countries can come true with a visa-on-arrival facil...
Read MoreTravel Admin
Coments (8)
You may have traveled to various astonishing places worldwide, but we bet you have not seen a gem li...
Read MoreTravel Admin
Coments (8)
The member states of CIS are Russia, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Armenia, Belaru...
Read MoreTravel Admin
Coments (8)
No matter which season you choose to visit, Azerbaijan offers something to enjoy throughout the year...
Read MoreTravel Admin
Coments (8)
Bulgaria is quite a novel destination in the Balkans It has a rich and immersive history which stand...
Read MoreTravel Admin
Coments (8)
Kazakhstan is a year-long destination where travelers can enjoy a range of adventures, sightseeing t...
Read MoreTravel Admin
Coments (8)
Central Asia stretches from Russia in the north Afghanistan in the south Chine in the east and the.....
Read MoreTravel Admin
Coments (8)
Vietnam a Southeast Asian country is a magnificent mix of natural attractions and cultural diversity...
Read MoreHassle-free booking and best price guaranteed
24/7 support available
Hand-picked tours & activities
Free travel insurance