"The 4th century building is the oldest archaeologically documented church in the country - sensational evidence for early Christianity in Armenia," said Professor Achim Lichtenberger of the University of Münster.
Dr Mkrtich H. Zardaryan of the National Academy of Sciences of Armenia further explained, "Octagonal churches were unknown here until now, but we are very familiar with them from the Eastern Mediterranean region, where they first appeared in the 4th century AD."
Researchers uncovered wooden platforms in the cross-shaped extensions, which were radiocarbon dated to the mid-4th century AD. Though the church had a simple mortar floor and terracotta tiles, marble fragments discovered at the site suggest that the structure was once lavishly adorned with materials imported from the Mediterranean.
This discovery adds a new layer of understanding to Armenia's early Christian history. Artaxata, once the capital of the Kingdom of Armenia, has long been connected to the country's Christian heritage.
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