Aghjots Monastery, Ararat Travel Guide

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Discover the serene ruins of Aghjots Monastery, a 13th-century Armenian monastic complex nestled in the Khosrov State Reserve near Garni.

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Aghjots Monastery

Nestled in the Khosrov State Reserve near Mets Gilanlar, Aghjots Monastery, also known as Saint Stephen Monastery of Goght, is a captivating 13th-century monastic complex. The monastery's serene setting and traditional Armenian architecture offer a glimpse into Armenia's rich spiritual and cultural heritage, despite its partially ruined state.

A brief summary to Aghjots Monastery

4R45+P4J, Mets Gilanlar, AM

From Eve

Know before you go

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

Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking on uneven terrain, as the monastery is located within a natural reserve and involves some walking.
Bring water and snacks, especially if you plan to hike in the Khosrov State Reserve, as there are limited facilities nearby.
Consider visiting in the warmer months (March to late autumn) for more favorable weather conditions.

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Getting There

Public Transport

To reach Aghjots Monastery via public transport, begin by taking a marshrutka (minibus) from Yerevan to Garni. The ride takes approximately one hour and costs around 500 AMD. From Garni, hire a taxi to Mets Gilanlar, confirming with the driver that they can drop you off near the monastery. The final half-mile from Mets Gilanlar to Aghjots Monastery is accessible by foot.
Taxi

To reach Aghjots Monastery by taxi, start in Yerevan and request a ride to the monastery. The journey is approximately 45 km and takes around 1 hour and 15 minutes. Taxi fares in Yerevan typically start at 600 AMD, with an additional 100 AMD per kilometer. Expect to pay around 5,100 AMD for the trip. It's advisable to use a ride-hailing app like GG Taxi or Yandex Taxi.

Discover more about Aghjots Monastery

Aghjots Monastery, also known as Surb Stepanos, is a medieval Armenian monastic complex located within the Khosrov State Reserve, a short walk from the hamlet of Mets Gilanlar in the Ararat Province. According to local legend, the monastery was founded by Grigor Lusavorich (Gregory the Illuminator) in the 4th century on the site where Stepanos, an attendant of Saint Hripsime, was martyred.The present monastic complex dates back to the 13th century, with most of it commissioned in 1217 by Prince Grigor Khaghbakian and his wife Princess Zaz. The complex comprises the main church of Surp Stepanos (Saint Stephen), the church of Saints Paul and Peter, and an adjacent gavit (a type of Armenian church porch or narthex). The Surp Stepanos church, built in the early 13th century, features a cruciform plan and a vaulted structure. The Church of Saints Peter and Paul was constructed in 1270 by Prince Vasak, their son.Over the centuries, Aghjots Monastery has faced numerous challenges. It was sacked by Persians in 1603 and later restored. The earthquake of 1679, which devastated the region, also damaged the monastery. Further destruction occurred in the 18th century and during the Armenian-Tatar massacres of 1905-1906. Today, the monastery stands in ruins, a testament to its resilience and historical significance. Despite its ruined state, the monastery retains its architectural beauty, with intricate stone carvings, khachkars (cross-stones), and the unique 14th-century reliefs of Apostles Peter and Paul.