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Aghjots Monastery: A Medieval Sanctuary in Ruins

Explore the evocative ruins of this 13th-century monastery nestled in Armenia's Khosrov State Reserve, offering a glimpse into the nation's rich spiritual history.

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Aghjots Monastery, also known as the Saint Stephen Monastery of Goght, is a captivating 13th-century monastic complex nestled within the Khosrov State Reserve in Armenia. Though largely in ruins, the site offers a serene and historically rich experience for visitors seeking to connect with Armenia's spiritual past.

A brief summary to Aghjots Monastery

  • 4R45+P4J, Mets Gilanlar, 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 sturdy shoes as the terrain around the monastery is uneven and requires some walking.
  • Bring water and snacks, especially if you plan to hike in the Khosrov State Reserve.
  • Visit in the morning or late afternoon for a more peaceful experience and better lighting for photography.
  • Dress modestly when visiting the monastery out of respect for its religious significance.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the hamlet of Mets Gilanlar, the monastery is approximately a half-mile walk. Follow the trails leading towards the coordinates 40.1068461, 44.8077507. The walk should take around 20 minutes. Be sure to wear appropriate footwear as the path can be rocky.

  • Public Transport

    Take a marshrutka (minibus) from Yerevan to Garni. The ride takes about an hour and costs around 500 AMD. From Garni, hire a taxi to Mets Gilanlar; confirm with the driver that they can drop you off near Aghjots Monastery. Alternatively, take a marshrutka from Yerevan to Goght. From Goght, Aghjots Monastery can be reached on foot or horseback, which is about a 3-hour climb. A taxi from Garni to Mets Gilanlar will cost approximately 2,000-3,000 AMD.

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Discover more about Aghjots Monastery

Aghjots Monastery, or Saint Stephen Monastery of Goght, is a medieval Armenian monastic complex dating back to the 13th century. Situated in the Khosrov State Reserve near the villages of Goght and Garni, it lies along a tributary of the Azat River Valley. According to local legend, the monastery's origins trace back to the 4th century when Grigor Lusavorich (Gregory the Illuminator) founded a monastery on the site where Stepanos, an attendant of Hripsime, was martyred. The complex comprises the church of Surb Stepanos (Saint Stephen), the church of Saints Paul and Peter, and a gavit (a type of narthex). The main church, Surb Stepanos, was constructed in the early 13th century and features a cruciform plan. The Church of Saints Peter and Paul was built in 1270. The monastery's walls are adorned with inscriptions detailing its history, along with khachkars (cross-stones) exhibiting intricate floral and geometric carvings. Uniquely, the portal of a roofless nave is flanked by 14th-century reliefs of Apostles Peter and Paul, a stylistic element more common in European Romanesque and Gothic churches. Throughout its history, Aghjots Monastery has faced numerous challenges, including invasions, earthquakes, and conflicts. It was sacked by Persians in 1603 and suffered significant damage in the 1679 earthquake that also devastated the nearby Havuts Tar Monastery. Despite these hardships, the monastery was restored several times, serving as a religious and cultural center until it was abandoned in the 18th century. Today, Aghjots Monastery stands in ruins, a testament to its enduring legacy within the Khosrov State Reserve.

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