Armenia was the first European country to adopt Christianity in 301 AD, and any visit would be incomplete without a trip to Etchmiadzin, or 'Coming of the Only Begotten', the religious centre of the country.

Legend has it that Jesus Christ descended from Heaven to indicate the perfect location for a church and this is now the seat of the Supreme Catolicos of Armenia. Visit the fine Orthodox Cathedral which contains many interesting artefacts including, allegedly, the lance used to pierce Jesus' side as he hung on the cross, together with a piece of Noah's Ark.

There are also some beautiful frescoes.