Temples & religious sites
Cathedral of Avan
Cathedral of Avan
The Cathedral of Avan is a ruined church located in the Avan district of Yerevan. Dating back to the late 6th century, it is the oldest surviving church in the city. It is architecturally significant as an early example of the symmetrical tetraconch style, featuring a four-lobed design.
Getting There
The site is located on the outskirts of the city center. Visitors typically reach the cathedral via taxi or local transport from central Yerevan. The journey generally takes 20 to 30 minutes depending on traffic conditions.
Visit Duration
Because the site consists of ruins and is relatively small, allow approximately 45 to 60 minutes to explore the structure and the surrounding grounds.
When to Visit
The site is open-air, making it most accessible during the spring and autumn months when temperatures are moderate. Morning or late afternoon visits are recommended to avoid the midday heat. The location does not typically experience heavy crowds.
Nearby Attractions
The cathedral can be combined with other nearby sites to create a full day itinerary:
- Saint Hovhannes Church of Avan: 0.6km
- Yerevan Botanical Garden: 1.3km
- Yerevan Water World: 1.6km
- Nansen Park, Yerevan: 1.9km
Updated September 8, 2026 · Edited by the World by City editors