Cathedral and Churches of Echmiatsin and the Archaeological Site of Zvartnots

UNESCO World Heritage Site (inscribed 2000) comprising Echmiatsin Cathedral and the ruins of Zvartnots in Armenia. Echmiatsin Cathedral, built 301-303 AD by King Trdat III and Saint Gregory the Illuminator, is often considered the oldest cathedral in the world, featuring a cruciform plan with four polygonal apses and a central cupola supported by four pillars. Zvartnots Temple, constructed in the mid-7th century, had a distinctive 32-sided polygonal exterior with a Greek cross interior plan rising three storeys. It collapsed by the 10th century, likely from an earthquake. Together they illustrate the evolution of Armenian central-domed cross-hall church architecture, which profoundly influenced regional ecclesiastical design.