This monastic complex of 4-17 cc. has a special place in the Armenian architectural heritage. It is near Artashat town in the Ararat valley and has Biblical Ararat in the background. The remarkable place of the sight is the underground prison of Grigor Lousavorich. He was the establisher of Christianity as a state religion in Armenia. For preaching Christian faith in Armenia he was imprisoned in this remote place by Trdat King and stayed here for 17 years. Trdat got ill and in his dream he was told that only Grigor would be able to help him. Grigor was taken into the Palace and cured him. By this he got freedom and established Christianity in Armenia. In 301, he baptized the nation and Armenia claimed it as a state religion. |
