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Ancient temples and monasteries in Armenia
Armenia is a country of churches, temples and monasteries. It is the first country that adopted Christianity, people are very religious , and since the 4th century Armenia started to build monasteries. Many of them have survived. Monasteries and temples are a living testimony to the oldest history and culture of Armenia. It is wort visiting some the ancient Armenian churches and monasteries; it is an integral part of the Armenian culture and the knowledge of the soul
Khor Virap (642 y), Ararat region
One of the most ancient monasteries, which played a crucial role during the adoption of Christianity is the monastery of Khor Virap. The monastery is located in the Ararat valley, at a distance of 44km from Yerevan. From the monastery you can see the most spectacular view of Mount Ararat, but it is not the most important thing. The monastery has very interesting history.
According to the chronicles of Agatangeghosi,t king Trdat 3rd threw Gregory the Illuminator in Khor Virap pit and left him there for 13 years. All these years, he lived on bread and water, and was released only after he healed the king from an incurable disease. In 301, Trdat with the support of Gregory the Illuminator converted to Christianity and declared it the official religion of the country. After that, in 642, the king built a church of St. Gregory in the place of prison with a steep staircase leading to the very pit. In the 13th century the church was turned into a monastery and a high school. Now, Khor Virap is one of the most popular attractions. Each year, the Armenian Church celebrates the “Day of Gregory the Illuminator’s release from the pit”, and on the Sunday after Easter is celebrated the “Day of the entrance of Gregory the Illuminator to the pit.”
Odzun (4th century), Lori region
At 177km from Yerevan, in Odzun it is one of the oldest churches in Armenia. Odzun is one of the first temples, which was built after the adoption of Christianity, moreover, the temple is of great importance in terms of architecture; new principles, which later became the main part of the Armenian churches were used for the building of the temple. Odzun is domed basilica of rectangular shape, the temple is divided into 3 rooms, central (largest) is completed the altar. On both sides of the temple there is a belfry and facade of the temple decorated with unique bas-reliefs. On the territory of the temple there is an ancient tombstone and two memorials (height of 5 meters).
Ovanavank Monastery (1216 y), Aragatsotn region
Ovanavank monastery complex is located in Aragatsotn region, 28 km from Yerevan. The monastery is dedicated to John the Baptist (Hovhannes Mkrtich). The monastery is built on the place of medieval church (4c), which was built by the first Christians in the place of a pagan temple. The main church of the monastery complex is the church of St. Karapet (1216y). The most remarkable thing about the complex Ovanavank is educational center, which is considered the oldest in the Ararat valley. Here were kept ancient manuscripts, that now are preserved in the Matenadaran (Yerevan).
Noravank Monastery (10th century), Vayots Dzor
Noravank is located in 119km from Yerevan, in Vayots Dzor region, where nature is so generous, that is striking in its beauty and diversity. Since its inception, the monastery was a haven for monks and villagers. For two centuries, the monastery expanded and became an educational center. The monastery complex Novarank includes ramparts, two churches near the wall, vault, a large two-storey church and two chapels. On the territory there are ancient khachkars, and each of them has a separate story. The whole complex is striking in its grandeur, which stands proudly for centuries.
Goshavank monastery complex (12th century), Tavush region
Another unique monument of history and the carrier is in the village Gosh, at a distance of 115 km from Yerevan. Goshavank or Nor Getik received the status of religious and educational center in honor of Mkhitar Gosh (the famous scientist, philosopher and educator). He owns numerous fables, religious poems and prayers of Law (“Datastanagirk”). The monastery complex includes two churches, bell-stacks, two cells, khachkars and chapel ruins. If you decide to visit Goshavank, do not forget to take a stroll to the lake Parz, it impresses with its natural beauty.
Haghpat Monastery (10th century), Lori region
Medieval monastery is located 185 km from Yerevan, in the village Haghpat. The monastery complex was once one of the most important cultural and spiritual centers in the country. The monastery complex is a unique specimen of medieval Armenian architecture. The complex consists of the Church of St. Nshan, St. Gregory and St. Astvatsatsin, the chapel, parish library, the bell tower, the parish, the refectory and khachkars. The monastery complex also included a school and a printing house. The school had the classes of philosophy, grammar, music, art, oratory, etc. Now, the monastery has received the status of UNESCO World Heritage.
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