Aruch Cathedral — also called Aruchavank or Surb Grigor — is a huge 7th-century church standing on a rocky plateau at the western foot of Mount Aragats, in Armenia's Aragatsotn region.
It was built around 661–666 by Prince Grigor of the Mamikonian family, one of medieval Armenia's most powerful noble houses. For its time it was enormous — one of the largest single-nave domed churches ever built in Armenia.
The dome collapsed centuries ago, but the towering walls and the great apse still impress, and you can still make out traces of the original frescoes. Right beside the church lie the ruins of a princely palace and an old caravanserai (a roadside inn for travellers). Aruch is rarely crowded, so it is a peaceful place to take in grand early-medieval architecture. If you like castles, the mighty Amberd Fortress higher on the mountain pairs well with a visit.
Want to explore more of this area? Discover best tours of the Aragatsotn region.
