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Hnevank Monastery: A Medieval Armenian Sanctuary

Discover Hnevank Monastery, a historic Armenian sanctuary nestled in the Lori Province, offering stunning views and a glimpse into the past.

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Nestled in the Lori Province of Armenia, near the village of Kurtan, Hnevank Monastery is a captivating monastic complex dating back to the 7th-12th centuries. Perched on a hill within a gorge where the Dzoraget and Gargar rivers converge, this historic site offers a serene escape and a glimpse into Armenia's rich religious and architectural heritage.

A brief summary to Hnevank

  • XH3M+5JF, H24, Kurtan, AM
  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes, as the terrain around the monastery can be uneven and require some walking.
  • Bring water, especially during warmer months, as there are limited facilities for purchasing refreshments.
  • Consider visiting during the spring or fall for pleasant weather and optimal hiking conditions.
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Getting There

  • Car

    If driving from Vanadzor, head southwest on the H24 road towards Kurtan. Continue for approximately 20 km until you reach Kurtan. From the village center, Hnevank Monastery is about 2 km away; follow the signs to the monastery parking area. The drive from Vanadzor to Kurtan takes around 30 minutes.

  • Public Transport

    From Vanadzor's central bus station, take a minibus (marshrutka) to Kurtan. The ride typically takes 30-40 minutes and costs around 300 AMD. Upon arrival in Kurtan, you can walk to the monastery (approximately 2 km, 30-40 minutes) or hire a local taxi for 1000-1500 AMD.

  • Walking

    From the village of Kurtan, follow the signs leading to Hnevank Monastery. The walk is approximately 2 kilometers and takes about 30-40 minutes, offering scenic views of the surrounding landscape. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes and bring water.

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Discover more about Hnevank

Hnevank Monastery, meaning "Old Monastery," is a significant Armenian Apostolic Church complex located in the Lori Province. Its history spans from the 7th to the 12th centuries, with construction believed to have occurred in stages. The monastery's location is particularly striking, situated on a high hill within a deep gorge at the meeting point of the Dzoraget and Gargar rivers. The complex originally comprised three churches, a gavit (a type of narthex or entrance hall), residential quarters, and various service buildings. The main church, dating back to the 7th century, features a rectangular exterior and a cross-domed interior. Its unique dome drum is octagonal, adorned with sculpted arches. A Georgian inscription indicates that the church underwent restoration in 1154 by Smbat, son of Ivane Orbelyan. The remains of a two-story building with numerous doors and windows, likely a former convent residence, can be found approximately 50 meters east of the main complex. Notably, Hnevank lacks khachkars (Armenian cross-stones), suggesting that it adhered to Chalcedonian Christian beliefs for an extended period. While the exact reasons for its abandonment remain unknown, the Armenian government has undertaken renovation efforts, including the complete restoration of the main church's dome. Today, Hnevank stands as a testament to Armenia's medieval religious architecture and offers visitors a tranquil and historically rich experience.

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