Tsiranavor Church, Aragatsotn Travel Guide

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Discover the ancient beauty of Tsiranavor Church in Ashtarak, a 5th-century Armenian treasure with stunning views.

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Tsiranavor Church

Tsiranavor Church, a partly ruined 5th-century Armenian church in Ashtarak, enchants visitors with its apricot-colored stone and serene setting overlooking the Kasagh River Gorge. The basilica, also known as Pokaberd (Fortress of Poka), stands as a testament to Armenia's rich ecclesiastical history and architectural ingenuity.

A brief summary to Tsiranavor Church

79X8+7C3 Karmravor, Perch Proshyan Street, Ashtarak, AM
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From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Tsiranavor Church.

Visit during the golden hours of sunrise or sunset to see the church bathed in warm light for a magical experience.
Take time to wander around the grounds and enjoy the panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
Combine your visit with a trip to other nearby historical sites such as Karmravor Church and the Ashtarak Bridge.

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Other nearby places you may find interesting

The closest places of the same kind, if this one is not quite what you had in mind.

Agarak Historical and Cultural Reserve

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Ashtarak Bridge

Tegher Monastery

Arin Berd

Explore Tsiranavor Church on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Tsiranavor Church, mapped for you.

Getting There

Walking

If you are in Ashtarak city center, start at the town square and head south on Perch Proshyan Street. Continue straight for about 1.5 kilometers (approximately 20 minutes). The church will be on your right side. This is a pleasant walk with local scenery along the way. There are no costs associated with walking.
Public Transport

To reach Tsiranavor Church via public transportation, first, take a bus or minibus from Yerevan to Ashtarak. Buses frequently depart from the Kilikia Bus Station in Yerevan. The fare is typically around 200 AMD (approximately $0.50 USD). Once you arrive in Ashtarak, you can either walk or take a taxi to reach the church. Walking will take about 20 minutes; head south on Perch Proshyan Street towards the church. A taxi ride should cost around 700-1500 AMD (approximately $1.80-$4.00 USD) depending on your negotiation skills.
Car

If you are traveling by car, start your journey from the center of Ashtarak. Head south on the main road (Perch Proshyan Street) for about 1.5 kilometers. Look for the signs indicating 'Tsiranavor Church'. You will see the church on your right-hand side as you approach the coordinates 40.2981453, 44.3660584. There is a small parking area near the church where you can leave your vehicle. Parking is free.

Discover more about Tsiranavor Church

Nestled on the edge of a gorge in Ashtarak, Armenia, Tsiranavor Church, meaning 'apricot-colored church', is a partly ruined 5th-century Armenian religious site that offers a glimpse into the country's rich past. Believed to have been built under the patronage of Catholicos Nerses II Bagrevandtsi, the basilica showcases traditional Armenian architectural elements, including a triple-aisled layout and a horseshoe-shaped apse.Originally constructed in the 5th century, the church may have been built on the site of a pagan temple. It was later renovated, and during the 17th century, it was fortified with doubled walls to defend against invasions. Unfortunately, an earthquake in 1827 led to the collapse of the roof and partial destruction of the walls. Despite its ruined state, the church retains its historical and architectural significance, drawing visitors with its weathered stones and panoramic views.Legend says that the name and the existence of Tsiranavor, Karmravor and Spitakavor churches are connected to a tragic story of three sisters who loved one man. The sisters threw themselves into the gorge, and the broken-hearted Sargis became a hermit. In memory of the sisters, three churches were built, each named after the color of the sister's dress.