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Tanahat Monastery: A Medieval Armenian Treasure

Explore Tanahat Monastery: An 8th-century Armenian treasure with stunning architecture, rich history, and possible site of the medieval Gladzor University.

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Nestled in the Vayots Dzor Province, Tanahat Monastery is an 8th-century complex with rich history and stunning architecture. Once a possible location of Gladzor University, it offers a glimpse into Armenia's medieval past.

A brief summary to Tanahat Monastery

  • 1 Shahumyan Street, Yeghegnadzor, 3601, AM

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking on uneven terrain and exploring the monastery grounds.
  • Visit during the warmer months (March to late autumn) to enjoy pleasant weather conditions.
  • Take time to appreciate the intricate carvings and unique architectural details of the churches.
  • Explore the surrounding area to discover other historical and natural attractions in the Vayots Dzor region.
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Getting There

  • Taxi

    From Yeghegnadzor, taxis are readily available to Tanahat Monastery. Negotiate the fare beforehand or ensure the driver uses a meter. The drive is approximately 15 minutes. A typical fare should be around 1,000-1,500 AMD.

  • Public Transport

    From Yerevan, take a marshrutka (minibus) from Kilikia Bus Station to Yeghegnadzor. From Yeghegnadzor's main bus stop, you can take a taxi to Tanahat Monastery. Alternatively, from the town of Areni, you can take a marshrutka to Yeghegnadzor. The marshrutkas leave frequently throughout the day from Areni's main bus stop. The journey takes about 30-40 minutes. The marshrutka fare from Areni to Yeghegnadzor is approximately 300 AMD.

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Discover more about Tanahat Monastery

Tanahat Monastery, also known as Karmir Monastery (Red Monastery), is an 8th-century Armenian monastery located near Yeghegnadzor in the Vayots Dzor Province. The monastery's name comes from the reddish stones used in its construction. Founded on the site of a pagan temple dedicated to the goddess Anahit, it embodies centuries of Armenian religious and cultural heritage. The monastery complex features the Church of St. Stephen, constructed in the 13th century from dark bluish basalt under the patronage of the Proshyan princely dynasty. The church showcases a cruciform interior and a 12-facet drum supporting a tent-roofed dome. The Church of St. Nshan, also from the 13th century, adjoins St. Stephen's and features a bas-relief carving of a hunting scene. The Proshyan emblem, an eagle clutching a lamb, is carved on the southern wall of St. Stephen's Church. Khachkars and tombstones dating from the 13th to 16th centuries surround the monastery. Tanahat Monastery may have been the location of Gladzor University, one of Armenia's most significant educational centers in the late 13th century. The university taught theology, logic, geometry, astronomy, and other sciences. Excavations in 1970 revealed secular buildings that may have been part of the university. Today, Tanahat Monastery stands as a testament to Armenia's medieval glory, attracting visitors with its historical significance and architectural beauty.

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