Saint Gregory the Illuminator Cathedral

Saint Gregory the Illuminator Cathedral is the largest Armenian Apostolic cathedral in Yerevan, Armenia, standing at 5 Yervand Kochar Street in the Kentron district. The cathedral was built to mark the 1,700th anniversary of Armenia's adoption of Christianity as a state religion and was consecrated in 2001. It is dedicated to Saint Gregory the Illuminator, the evangelist credited with converting King Tiridates III in the early fourth century. The architect Stepan Kurkchyan designed the building in a modern interpretation of traditional Armenian church forms, using pale stone, a high central dome, and carved decoration. The interior is spacious, with a large nave, tall columns and a central altar, and the lower level holds a chapel that contains relics of Saint Gregory, which were brought from Naples. Visitors can walk through the nave, look at the iconography and watch services if they are held, though quiet and respectful behaviour is expected. A visit takes 30 to 45 minutes. Modest dress is required: shoulders and knees covered, and women often cover their heads, while hats are removed by men. Services follow a fixed schedule, and visitors should avoid walking around during the main liturgy. Late afternoon provides good light on the stone and a calmer atmosphere, and Sunday mornings are busy with worshippers. The cathedral is a ten-minute walk south of Republic Square along Grigor Lusavorich Street, close to the Kentron cafes and shops. Entry is free, and donations and candle offerings are customary. The building also hosts large church celebrations at major feast days.