The unusual open-altar Zorats Church in Yeghegis, where the sanctuary faces the open square — a protected cultural heritage monument of Armenia.
A church with an open altar
In the village of Yeghegis in Vayots Dzor stands Zorats Church, also known as Surp Stepanos. It is one of the most distinctive churches in Armenia: instead of a sheltered nave, its altar opens directly onto a broad outdoor space, so the congregation gathered in the open air before it. The church is listed as a cultural heritage monument of Armenia.
A one-day tour from Yerevan to Tatev Monastery, riding the world’s longest cableway. Lunch in Khot and a guided tour of the monastery.
This unusual "army church" design — the name Zorats relates to soldiers — let large gatherings, including mounted troops, take part in services and blessings out in the open. Built of stone in the medieval Armenian tradition, it remains a rare and memorable example of how architecture served both faith and community.
Why it is worth the detour to Yeghegis
A two-day ascent of Armenia’s highest mountain. Lake Kari at 3,200 m, an overnight at the station, a morning push to the southern (4,094 m) or western peak. For the well-prepared only.
Yeghegis is a rewarding pocket of Vayots Dzor, rich in medieval monuments, and Zorats Church is among its most striking. The open layout makes for unusual photographs and a vivid sense of how worship once filled the surrounding fields.
Few churches turn the whole sky into their nave the way this open altar does.
A winter trip: a 1-day ski pass in Tsaghkadzor, a spa evening, an overnight at a mountain hotel. Day two — Sevan with its ice ridges and a hot dolma lunch.
Weather in the Yeghegis valley can shift quickly, so check the forecast for the nearest point before you go. A clear, calm day is ideal for an open-air monument like this one.
From Yerevan to this place a car or transfer is the most convenient — public transport reaches most Armenian places rarely. Plan a day for the road plus at least half a day for the place itself.
Tours through this place
Ready routes in which this place is a key stop
Stay nearby
Where to stay if you're going for a day or more
B&B in the Areni vineyards
A stone house among the vineyards, next to the Areni-1 cave. The hosts make wine from their own harvest; a sunset tasting is included.
A spa sanatorium in Jermuk
Mineral baths on thermal water, an inhalation room, park walks and a waterfall within walking distance. Full board available.
Yerevan → Lake Sevan
The M-4 road over the Hrazdan pass. Viewpoint stops optional. A 2-hour wait at Sevanavank is included.