"Гарни" Историко-культурный Музей-заповедник

The Pagan Temple of Garni, dedicated to the God of Light and Sun, Mihr, was built around the in the year 77. According to the Greek record, the temple was founded by the Armenian king Trdat I, but in 305, when Armenia had already accepted Christianity, Trdat III forced to destroy all pagan places of worship.
Currently, the Garni Temple is the only structure that has been preserved from the pagan period. Garni Temple is built of gray basalt. The huge building stands on 24 pillars. The number of pillars symbolizes the 24 hours of the day. The temple is located between two vertical rocks, which are connected by 180 meter long walls.
In the past, the complex had a Roman bath, a royal summer house and a 7th century church. The mosaic preserved in the bathroom, which is made of natural stones of 15 colors, is a great attraction.