Ruins of the Zvartnots temple

The Zvartnots temple (translated from Armenian as “Temple of the Vigilant Angels”) is an example of early medieval Armenian architecture and is under the protection of UNESCO. It was built in 640–650 under Catholicos Nerses III in honour of Saint Gregory the Illuminator. The temple was a round, domed, three-tiered structure 49 m high. It is said to have served as a prototype for similar cathedrals in Byzantium, and Emperor Constantine II is said to have attended its opening. In the 10th century the temple was destroyed by an earthquake.

Excavations began in 1901–1907; today only the first tier has been partly reconstructed. Nearby are the remains of the palace of Nerses III and of dwellings, as well as a small museum.

Both photographs show the reconstructed arcade with carved column capitals, and several free-standing columns.