Ancient Armenian temple sheds light on early Christianity origins
Archaeologists have made a groundbreaking discovery that offers new insights into the origins of Christianity in Armenia. Researchers from the University of Münster, in collaboration with the National Academy of Sciences of Armenia, have uncovered the ruins of what is believed to be one of the oldest Christian temples in the world. The research team announced this finding in a press release dated October 11.
The ruins of a church from the 4th century AD have been discovered at the archaeological site of Artaxata, situated on the Ararat Plain.
Artaxata, once the capital of the Kingdom of Armenia, has long attracted archaeological interest. Research in this area has been ongoing since 2018, but only recently were traces of a Christian temple revealed.
Unique sacred structure from the 4th century
The discovered structure features a distinct octagonal shape with cross-shaped extensions. Archaeologists, using geophysical methods, managed to uncover and study parts of the structure.
This discovery is typologically consistent with early Christian memorial buildings – explained the University of Münster research team.
During the research, remnants of wooden platforms were also uncovered, which – through radiocarbon analysis – were dated to the mid-4th century.
The octagonal temple had a floor made of mortar and terracotta tiles, and its diameter was approximately 30 metres. Among the findings were marble fragments that likely originated from the Mediterranean region, suggesting that the building was lavishly decorated.
Professor Achim Lichtenberger from the University of Münster, one of the researchers leading the study, emphasized the importance of this discovery:
The 4th-century structure is the oldest archaeologically documented church in Armenia – a sensational piece of evidence for early Christianity in this country.
Armenia – the cradle of Christianity
The discovery of this ancient church in Armenia is particularly significant, given the country's historical heritage. According to tradition, Armenia was the first country to officially adopt Christianity as its state religion. As researchers from the University of Münster explain, a key figure in this history was Gregory the Illuminator, who in 301 AD converted the Armenian King Tiridates III to Christianity. This event marked Armenia as the first Christian nation in the world.
The find is located near the medieval monastery of Khor Virap, an important symbol of this religious tradition.
Artaxata, the former capital of the Kingdom of Armenia, was a significant centre during the Hellenistic period and served as the capital for nearly six centuries – added in the press release.
A new perspective on the history of Christianity
The discovery of the 4th-century Christian temple in Armenia is an invaluable find that enhances our understanding of the early history of Christianity in the region. This temple, as evidence of the evolution of religion in one of the world's first Christian countries, provides another piece in the puzzle to reconstruct what the beginnings of a faith that would dominate Armenian culture looked like.
The find in Artaxata is expected to deepen research on early Christianity and the role that Armenia played in its spread. Scientists are planning further work at the site, which may lead to even more remarkable discoveries.
