Nerses III the Builder was a 7th-century Armenian presbyter who served as the Catholicos of All Armenians from 641 until 661. Born in the village of Ishkhan, he led the church during a period of intense political instability. During his leadership, Armenia faced difficult diplomatic choices between the Byzantine Empire, the Persians, and the newly arrived Arab conquerors. He is remembered for his extensive architectural contributions, which earned him his distinctive epithet.