Introduction
This site is a modest attempt to give pilgrims and tourists an appreciation of the churches and monasteries that adorn Armenia’s spiritual landscape. It is a response to the requests of many friends and travelers who seek to understand and share the faith that inspired these houses of worship and communities of learning, art, and spirit.
The site consists of two parts. The first is a compilation of prayers and hymns from the Armenian Book of Hours, Divine Liturgy, and Requiem Service, which, in our experience, pilgrims and tourists have found meaningful to recite during their visits to these holy sites. It is not meant to be a fixed ritual, but to be a convenient resource, particularly for English-speaking visitors who would like to recite a prayer or sing a hymn in the local Armenian tradition but do not have translations and books at hand to do so. The second part is a short historical and architectural description of the most commonly visited sites, including a short section for private reflection on the historic events, benefactors, laity and clergy whose faith is witnessed at the site.
Like any guide, it is not exhaustive. Rather, it aims to enhance the journey and encourage exploration of Armenia’s rich and unique contribution to Christian heritage in the land of Noah’s Ark and the place where the Only Begotten Descended.
The complete guide is downloadable in pdf format with English and Armenian text. Click here for the pdf version.