YEREVAN, JUNE 24, ARMENPRESS. The Central Bank of Armenia issued a commemorative medal dedicated to Pope Francis’ visit to Armenia, the slogan of which is “Visit to the first Christian Nation”, press service of the CBA informed “Armenpress”.

In 301 the Christianity became the state religion in Armenia which is associated with the name of St. Gregory the Illuminator.

Stressing the necessity of strengthening the friendly relations between the churches, Catholicos of All Armenians Karekin II visited the Roman Catholic Church in 2000 where he met Pope John Paul II. In his turn, Pope John Paul II participated in the ceremonies devoted to the 1700 anniversary of the Christianity in Armenia.

Khor Virap Monastery with Mount Ararat’s background  and the dates of Pope’s visit are depicted in the front of the medal, while, on the back,  the statue of St. Gregory the Illuminator, the coats of arms of the Armenian Apostolic Church and the Roman Catholic Church are depicted.

The medal is a limited edition and has a historical-cultural value.