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Zvartnots Cathedral

The Zvartnots Catedral (643-652) are to the south of Vagharshapat, in the gardens formerly called 'a sand desert'. The ruins have a magic power. They inspire awe and admiration among viewers. Scholars assume that the heathen temple of God Tir of Armenian schooling and eloquence had been in this place.

The Cathedral and the Catholicos's Palace were built by Catholicos Nerses III Tayetsi (641-661). For his fruitful construction activity he was christened 'the Constructor.' The Catedral was given the name Zvartnots by Sebeos in VII c. It means a cathedral of zvartouns - 'angels.'

The rest mention St. Gregory of Arapar. Catholicos Nerses built it in a place where, according to the legend, Gregory, who had been set free from imprisonment, and King Trdat met. It was dedicated to the memory of St. Illuminator as the relics of the Saint were buried in its foundation.