Nerses III the Builder

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Nerses III the Builder was the head of the Armenian Apostolic Church from 641 to 661. He came from the village of Ishkhan in Tayk. He led Armenia during a difficult time when Byzantines, Persians, and Arab conquerors threatened the country. He earned the title “the Builder” for his big building projects. His most important works were a chapel over the pit where St. Gregory the Illuminator was imprisoned at Khor Virap (the chapel was later replaced by the current church) and the great Zvartnots Cathedral. Tradition says he may be buried on the northern side of Zvartnots. He also founded the Agarak monastery.