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Sep 07, 2025
Havuts Tar – A monastery complex hidden in the Garni Valley
Havuts Tar – a medieval monastery complex in the heart of the Khosrov Forest Historical overview The Havuts Tar monastery, also known as the Surb Nshan monastery, was founded in the 11th century. The monastery became an important spiritual and educational center. There was a school and a writing center here, where numerous manuscripts were created and stored. The monastery was famous for its literary and theological activities; it was a place of high spiritual and cultural level. Historical sources indicate that many monks and students studied in Havuts Tar. In subsequent centuries, the monastery suffered great damage from Persian and Turkish invasions and the devastating earthquake of 1679. Today, the ruins have been preserved, testifying to the monastery’s former power. Architecture and preserved parts The main church is built on a cruciform plan, with a central dome. There were a vestibule, monastery rooms and stor...
Sep 07, 2025
🏛 Mashtots Hayrapet Church – the ancient sanctuary of Garni
🏛 Mashtots Hayrapet Church – The Ancient Sanctuary of Garni Historical Overview Mashtots Hayrapet Church is located in the northeastern part of the village of Garni. It was built in the 7th century and was dedicated to Mashtots Hayrapet, as a canonized church leader. The church was one of the important spiritual centers of the Garni region. Over the years, it has been repeatedly damaged by earthquakes and wars. Today, ruins have been preserved, but based on them it is possible to imagine the former splendor of the church. Architectural features It was built of basalt stone, which was the most available material at that time. The church had a central domed structure with a cruciform plan. It was surrounded by a courtyard and small buildings that served as monastery areas. Cultural significance Mashtots Hayrapet Church was not only a religious center, but also a place of education and culture. Here, writers, preac...
Sep 07, 2025
Symphony of Stones – The Miracle of Armenia's Nature
Symphony of Stones – The Miracle of Armenian Nature General Description The Symphony of Stones, also known as the “Basalt Columns”, is one of the most impressive natural monuments in Armenia. It is located in the Garni Gorge, on the banks of the Azat River. The huge stone columns, formed millions of years ago by a volcanic lava flow, are arranged in a way that resembles the pipes of a huge organ. History of composition and formation The columns are made of basalt, a rock of volcanic origin. When the lava from ancient volcanoes cooled and gradually cracked, hexagonal and pentagonal columns were formed. This natural phenomenon is widespread in the world, but in Armenia it has a unique scale and beauty. Impressive view The Symphony of Stones stretches for about 1 km. The columns reach a height of up to 50 meters. When the sun's rays fall on them, the stones acquire different shades, from dark gray to bronze. Cultur...
Sep 07, 2025
Geghardavank – a monastic complex built into the embrace of rocks
Geghardavank – a monastery complex built in the embrace of rocks Historical overview Geghardavank, or as it was originally called, the Monastery of the Blood Lance, was founded in the 4th century by Gregory the Illuminator. According to tradition, the holy spear (lance) with which the Roman soldier pierced the crucified Jesus Christ was kept here. This sacred relic gave the monastery its name. In the Middle Ages, the monastery became not only a spiritual, but also a scientific and educational center. Manuscripts were created here, scribes and monastic schools operated. Architectural features The greatest feature of Geghardavank is that it is partially built into the rocks. Due to this, the monastery complex has a unique and mysterious appearance. Parking lot church, Katoghike (1215) – the main temple, built of stone. Rock-hewn churches – the most impressive part of the complex, which are cut directly from the body of...