In a significant discovery that underscores the deep Christian roots of Western civilization, archaeologists have unearthed what is believed to be one of the oldest Christian churches in the world. The ancient structure, dating back to the fourth century, was found in Armenia, a country with an unparalleled Christian heritage, as it was the first nation to officially adopt Christianity.
The University of Münster in Germany, working in collaboration with archaeologists from the National Academy of Sciences of Armenia, announced this exciting find in a press release on October 11th. The ruins were uncovered at the Artaxata site in the Ararat Plain, a region steeped in religious and historical significance.
Though excavations at the site began in 2018, it wasn’t until recently that the remains of the church were discovered. What makes this find particularly extraordinary is the type and layout of the building, which provides a rare glimpse into the early Christian world. The church, featuring an octagonal design with cruciform extensions, is a powerful reminder of the early architectural brilliance that marked the spread of Christianity.
The University of Münster explained that the church was excavated using geophysical methods, and its layout is typical of early Christian memorial buildings. Radiocarbon dating revealed that the remains date back to the mid-4th century AD, placing this church among the earliest Christian worship sites ever uncovered.
This remarkable discovery reinforces Armenia’s crucial role in the spread of Christianity. “The 4th century building is the oldest archaeologically documented church in the country – sensational evidence for early Christianity in Armenia,” said Professor Achim Lichtenberger from the University of Münster. The floor of the church was made of mortar and terracotta tiles, and its size—measuring around 100 feet in diameter—suggests it was a significant place of worship. Even more impressive were fragments of marble imported from the Mediterranean, indicating that the church was not only spiritually important but also lavishly decorated.
For many Christians, this discovery holds deep cultural and religious meaning. Armenia’s conversion to Christianity is a cornerstone of the country’s identity, and this church serves as a testament to the country’s lasting commitment to the faith. According to tradition, Gregory the Illuminator converted King Tiridates III to Christianity in 301 AD, making Armenia the first officially Christian nation. The newly uncovered church lies near the medieval Khor Virap monastery, a place still revered as a symbol of this Christian legacy.
This archaeological find reminds us of the strength and endurance of Christian civilization, even in the face of centuries of adversity. While the Western world may grapple with modern challenges, the uncovering of this ancient church is a poignant reminder of the foundational role that Christianity played—and continues to play—in shaping culture, law, and society.
As experts continue to study this site, there’s no doubt that more will be learned about the early Christian era in Armenia and the broader region. But one thing is already clear: this discovery is a powerful reaffirmation of Christianity’s historical and cultural significance, especially at a time when faith is increasingly under attack in many parts of the world.
