Khor Virap monastery built during 7th -17th centuries AD, Artashat, Ararat province, Armenia

 Nikola Benin

Khor Virap plays an integral role in the history of Armenia due to the legend of St. Gregory the Illuminator, the first Armenian Catholicos, who was imprisoned there for 14 years. During the reign of King Tiridates III the Great, Gregory the Illuminator was trying to spread Christianity in Armenia, which was not approved by the pagan ruler. Gregory refused to worship pagan Gods, thus, the king ordered his guards to tie the Christian’s hands and throw him into a deep well. King Tiridates left Gregory to die in the dark dungeon where he was imprisoned. He spent 14 years in that dark, damp and small place, but survived due to the kindness of a woman’s tender heart.