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Aghjots Monastery: A Ruined Medieval Sanctuary

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

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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, its evocative remains offer a glimpse into Armenia's rich religious and architectural 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 rocky.
  • Bring water and snacks, especially if hiking, as there are no facilities nearby.
  • Consider visiting in the late afternoon for a more peaceful experience and better lighting for photography.
  • Combine your visit with other nearby attractions such as Geghard Monastery or Garni Temple.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Yerevan, take bus 284 from the Gai bus station to Goght. The ride takes approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes and costs $5-9. From Goght, you can hire a taxi to Mets Gilanlar. Confirm the fare before starting the ride. From Mets Gilanlar, it is a short walk to Aghjots Monastery.

  • Taxi

    From Yerevan, a taxi ride to Mets Gilanlar typically costs $14-17 and takes around 1 hour and 14 minutes. Taxi services like Yandex Taxi and GG Taxi are available. From Mets Gilanlar, it is a short walk to Aghjots Monastery.

  • Walking

    If you are already in Mets Gilanlar, head east from the village center towards the hills. Follow the dirt road that leads to Aghjots Monastery, which is clearly marked. The walk is about 5 km and will take you through scenic landscapes.

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Discover more about Aghjots Monastery

Aghjots Monastery, or Aghjots Vank, is a partially ruined 13th-century monastery located near the village of Mets Gilanlar, within the protected Khosrov State Reserve in the Ararat Province of Armenia. The monastery, also known as the Saint Stephen Monastery of Goght, is situated along a tributary of the Azat River Valley. Local legend suggests the monastery's origins trace back to the 4th century when Grigor Lusavorich (Gregory the Illuminator) founded a religious site on the burial ground of Stepanos, a priest who sought refuge from King Trdat III's persecutions. The existing monastic complex largely dates to the 13th century. Prince Grigor Khaghbakian and his wife Princess Zaz commissioned much of the construction in 1217. The complex comprises the main church of Surp Stepanos (Saint Stephen), the Church of Saints Paul and Peter, and a gavit (a type of narthex or entrance hall). Surp Stepanos church, built in the early 13th century, features a cruciform plan. The Church of Saints Peter and Paul was constructed in 1270. A distinguishing feature, uncommon in Armenian architecture but found in Romanesque and Gothic churches, is the presence of two full-length 14th-century reliefs of Apostles Peter and Paul flanking the portal of a roofless nave. Aghjots Monastery has faced numerous challenges throughout its history. It was sacked by Persians in 1603 and subsequently restored. The earthquake of 1679, which devastated the region, also damaged the monastery. It suffered further despoliation in the 18th century and was left in ruins following the Armenian-Tatar massacres of 1905–1906. Today, the ruins lie within the Khosrov State Reserve.

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