LIVE: Newly Reconstructed 4th Century Etchmiadzin Cathedral Unveiled, Mother Church of the Armenian Apostolic Church

The Holy Cathedral of Etchmiadzin, a cornerstone of Armenian religious heritage, is nearing the completion of its highly anticipated renovation. The Armenian Report is currently broadcasting live on our YouTube channel from the cathedral, showcasing this momentous event as it prepares to unveil the results of an extensive restoration project.

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For over 1,700 years, the Etchmiadzin Cathedral has stood as a central symbol of the Armenian Apostolic Church. This renovation is the most significant in the cathedral’s history, reflecting both the scale and importance of the work completed. The renovation efforts, which began in 2012, are now fully finished, with a grand re-opening set to occur between September 30 and October 3.

The renovation project was divided into two main phases. The first phase involved carefully removing murals that interfered with the structural aspects of the cathedral. These murals were preserved and will be returned to their original places once the structural work was complete. The second phase focused on the general restoration and repair of the cathedral’s features.

Arzhanik Hovhannisyan, a leading specialist in mural restoration, shared insights into the process. "Our goal was twofold," Hovhannisyan explained. "First, we had to safely separate the murals from the cathedral’s structure. Once the construction work was finished, we reinstalled the murals and completed the final restoration tasks."

The re-opening of the Etchmiadzin Cathedral will be marked by a series of ceremonies, including re-consecration and blessings. While details are still being finalized, Priest Artenyan, Director of the Information System of the Mother See, confirmed that the events will take place from September 30 to October 3. High-ranking guests from abroad are expected to attend, underscoring the event’s significance.

"The re-opening, re-consecration, and blessing ceremonies are scheduled for late September and early October," said Artenyan. "However, some organizational aspects, such as guest lists and specific ceremonies, are still under discussion."

The renovation and re-consecration process is being overseen by key figures from the Armenian Apostolic Church. His Grace Fr. Archbishop Arshak Khachatryan, Chairman of the Coordinating Committee for the Re-consecration of the Mother Cathedral, and His Grace Fr. Archbishop Nathan Hovhannisyan, Chairman of the Publications and Events Organization Committee, have played crucial roles in this project.

Both archbishops have expressed their gratitude to everyone involved in the renovation and highlighted the importance of this project in preserving the cathedral’s historical and spiritual legacy.

To witness the unveiling of the renovated Etchmiadzin Cathedral and follow the ongoing celebrations, tune in to The Armenian Report’s live stream on our YouTube channel. This historic occasion marks a new chapter for one of Armenia’s most revered religious sites, and we invite viewers around the world to join us in celebrating this remarkable achievement.

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