Cathedral and Churches of Echmiatsin and the Archaeological Site of Zvartnots

Diagnosis of Tourism Enhancement of the UNESCO World Heritage Ensemble of Apostolic Churches of Armenia

Armenia's UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the Cathedral and Churches of Echmiatsin and the Archaeological Site of Zvartnots, possess significant tourism potential due to their historical significance (4th century), unique architectural styles, and ongoing religious use. A first-of-its-kind study in Armenia reveals that these sites, particularly the Monastery of Geghard and the Cathedral of Echmiatsin, attract visitors owing to their accessibility, good conservation status, and visual appeal. The research combines fieldwork observations, bibliographic reviews, and heritage inventory preparation to assess tourism potential while preserving intrinsic values. It proposes tools for enhancing physical and intellectual access, aiming to boost visitation without compromising the sites' authenticity.