Ejmiatsin city is situated in Armavir province in Armenia, the population is about 60,000.  Historically, the focal point of the city is the Mother Cathedral of Holy Etchmaiadzin  which is one of the oldest churches in the world. It was first built by Saint Gregory the Illuminator in 301-303, when Armenia had just adopted Christianity as a state religion (the first such in world history). The church was enlarged on occasion, notably in 480, 618 and 1658.

The Mother Cathedral is the spiritual and administrative headquarters of the worldwide Armenian Apostolic Church and the Pontifical Residence of the Supreme Patriarch and Catholicos of All Armenians.

Interior of the Cathedral

The Altar of Descent is located in the center of the Cathedral, directly underneath the main dome. The Altar is located on the spot where St. Gregory the illuminator saw Christ descend to the ground, and strike the earth with a Golden Hammer, revealing the vision of the Mother Cathedral of Holy Etchmiadzin.