Khor Virap Monastery

The basics

Near the Turkish border, Khor Virap is a small complex made up of several structures; while the original building dates back to the 7th century, most of the site was built a millennium later. Along with a traditional domed church and chapel, the monastery (whose name translates to “Deep Dungeon”) also contains the space where St. Gregory the Illuminator was held captive, which is open to visitors. Many people stop here as part of a full-day guided tour that includes sites such as Garni Temple and Noravank Monastery, or a wine-tasting experience.

Things to know before you go

• There’s a short uphill walk to enter the site, as well as stairs and uneven surfaces, making access with a wheelchair very difficult.

• To see the prison where St. Gregory the Illuminator was kept, visitors need to climb down an iron ladder into a dark, confined space. It’s not recommended for anyone who experiences claustrophobia.

• Wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes when you visit the monastery, especially if you plan on entering the prison cell.

• The Khor Virap complex contains the 17th-century St. Astvatsatsin Church. To visit, both men and women must wear modest clothing. It’s a good idea for women to have a scarf or shawl on hand, as they’re often expected to cover their hair in Armenia.

• This part of Armenia is surrounded by vineyards and has a long tradition of winemaking. If your schedule allows, be sure to stop at a winery for a tasting.

How to get there

Khor Virap Monastery is located around 25 miles (40 kilometers) south of Yerevan, Armenia’s capital. Depending on traffic, you can count on the drive taking anywhere from 45 minutes to an hour. Options for getting there include renting your own car, taking a taxi, or joining a guided tour. Tours have the added benefit of cultural and historical context on Armenia, and many even include hotel pickup and drop-off.

When to get there

Khor Virap is one of Armenia’s most popular attractions, so expect crowds. Early morning and late afternoon are ideal for visiting if you’d like a quieter, more reflective experience, and also when you’ll have the best views of Mt. Ararat. If you’re interested in photographing the peak, try to come on a clear, sunny day.

Visiting Armenia’s Areni wine region

Khor Virap is often included as a stop on the way south to Areni, about an hour to 90 minutes away. This scenic region has been known for its winemaking traditions for millennia—in fact, Areni Cave is said to contain the world’s oldest known winery, dating back some 6,000 years. The region is still home to dozens of family-owned wineries. Come in October for the annual Areni Wine Festival.