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Spitakavor Church: A White Jewel in Ashtarak

Discover the serene beauty and rich history of Spitakavor Church, a 13th-century Armenian architectural gem in Ashtarak.

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Spitakavor Church, or 'White Church', is a partly ruined 13th-century Armenian Apostolic church on the edge of a gorge in Ashtarak. Built with white felsite stone, it features unique carvings and a serene atmosphere, offering beautiful views of the surrounding landscape.

A brief summary to Spitakavor Church

  • 10 Alazan St, Ashtarak, 0201, AM

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for the best lighting for photography and to avoid crowds.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as the terrain around the church can be uneven.
  • Take time to explore the surrounding area for beautiful hiking trails and scenic views.
  • Respect the serenity of the church; it's a place for reflection and peace.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    To reach Spitakavor Church via public transport, take a bus or minibus from Aragatsotn to Ashtarak. Buses frequently depart from the main bus station in Aragatsotn. Once in Ashtarak, walk towards Alazan Street (about 1 km) to find Spitakavor Church on your right. A single bus fare from Aragatsotn to Ashtarak typically costs around 200-300 AMD.

  • Taxi

    If you prefer a direct route, take a taxi from the center of Aragatsotn to Spitakavor Church. Taxis are readily available near the central square or via local apps. The fare should be around 1,000 to 1,500 AMD, depending on your negotiation skills.

  • Car

    From the center of Aragatsotn, head towards Ashtarak via the M-1 highway. Follow the signs to Ashtarak, and once you enter the town, drive straight until you reach Alazan Street. Turn left onto Alazan Street and continue for about 1 km to find Spitakavor Church on your right. Parking is available near the church entrance.

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Discover more about Spitakavor Church

Nestled in the town of Ashtarak, the Spitakavor Church, also known as the Church of Holy Mother of God, stands as a testament to Armenia's rich religious and architectural history. The name 'Spitakavor' translates to 'white-colored' in Armenian, derived from the white felsite stone used in its construction. Built in the 13th century, the church represents a small domed hall with annexes. Its structure includes a cylindrical drum and a conical roof, adorned with bas-reliefs depicting spiritual and secular scenes. According to local legend, the church's origin is intertwined with a tragic love story involving three sisters who all fell in love with the same prince, Sargis. The two elder sisters sacrificed themselves for the youngest, leading Sargis to become a hermit and build three churches, each named after the color of the sisters' dresses: Karmravor (Red), Tsiranavor (Apricot), and Spitakavor (White). Inside the church, the gavit's drum is notably high, creating an impression of spaciousness within the small structure. Carvings inside the dome depict Jesus Christ and the four Evangelists, along with figures believed to be Prince Eachi Proshyan and his son Amir Hasan II holding a miniature of the church. The church also holds the grave of Garegin Nzhdeh, a military and political figure, adding to its historical significance. Despite being partially ruined, Spitakavor Church remains a significant cultural and spiritual site, attracting visitors with its beauty and tranquil setting.

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