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 [1]. Echmiatsin Cathedral 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 [1] [2]. Zvartnots Temple, constructed in the mid-7th century, had a distinctive 32-sided polygonal exterior with a Greek cross interior plan [1] [3]. It collapsed by the 10th century, likely from an earthquake [1] [3]. Together they illustrate the evolution of Armenian central-domed cross-hall church architecture, which profoundly influenced regional ecclesiastical design [1].