The Khor Virap Monastery is located at the foot of the mighty Mount Ararat in Armenia, about 40 kilometers north of the capital Yerevan. The venerable monastery is of great religious as well as national importance as it is in the immediate vicinity of the Turkish border. When the weather is clear, you can enjoy a breathtaking view of the legendary Mount Ararat, which rises to a height of 5137 meters.
The history of the region goes back to pre-Christian times. King Artaxias I founded it here in 180 BC. The ancient Armenian capital Artaxata. According to legend, King Trdat III. have held Saint Gregory (called "The Illuminator") imprisoned for over 13 years. The tyrant tried to persuade him to renounce Christian belief, but all his efforts were unsuccessful. Impressed by his stubbornness, the king finally gave in and even made Christianity the state religion in 301.
Originally there was only a small chapel on the hill, the St. Georg chapel, inaugurated in 642. Even today, two narrow entrances, starting from the inside, allow access to two holes in the earth, in which the saint - according to legend - was imprisoned. It wasn't until around a millennium later that the Mother of God Church was built here in 1661, which was gradually expanded into a small monastery over the following centuries.
On weekends, the monastery is a popular destination for locals, weddings and performances are often held here, which are very popular with the Armenians. Traditionally, white pigeons are also sold here to be released. For every released pigeon, one wish should come true, but certainly the wish of the seller. If you want to visit the facility in summer, it is best to do this in the morning, as it can get very hot during the day.