Historical Center of Vagharshapat

Vagarshapat - historical center of ancient settlement known since the times of Urartu king Rus II (7th century BC). It houses Mother Cathedral and Echmiadzin's Primatial Ensemble linking the city's historical core with early Christian traditions of Armenia. The settlement is also known under names such as Kuaranili, Artime, Vardgesavan and Vagarshapat, developed during King Vagharsh I Arshakid and served as capital of ancient Armenia during the Arshakid dynasty.