Sunday, September 25, 2011

Day 8 - Khor Virap & Echmiadzin

One of the most visited sites in Armenia is Khor Virap (meaning 'deap dungeon'). The monastery is quite close to the neutral zone between Armenia and Turkey. 

Khor Virap is where Grigor Luisavorich (St Gregory the Illuminator) was imprisoned for 13 years in an underground chamber before he cured King Trdt III of a disease. This was the start of Armenia becoming the first nation to embrace Christianity as a state religion, the year was 301.



The view of Mt Ararat is breathtaking from the top of the Monastery. The clouds dispersed long enough to be able to see it fully.




On the way up you can buy a dove, make a wish and release the dove. We saw this at a couple of our stops. Dad held a couple for the picture and then gave them back and gave the guy some change.


The details in the stone work have just amazed me and the architecture is something to behold.



How many feet have stepped here?
It's time for me to get ready for church. Dad is preaching at the Armenian Brotherhood Church in Yerevan. We have a full day ahead of us and tomorrow we head home. Please pray for those who will be in church this morning.

I will do my best to finish up the post for Day 8 before heading to bed tonight. And as I promised will continue to post after getting back home.

2 comments:

  1. Ruth: We've been reading your blog and have found it fascinating. We will never have the chance to visit those countries you are so familiar with.Thanks for allowing us to see them through your eyes. Safety now as you prepare for home. You have had a life-changing experience. Blessings.......Mair and Denny

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  2. Such a rich and meaningful post. This is armchair travel! Thank you for staying up late and posting. God be with you in your return, you will be in Paris as I type this.

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