Lmbatavank Monastery: A Medieval Armenian Treasure

Discover Lmbatavank Monastery: A serene escape into Armenia's rich history, showcasing stunning architecture and ancient frescoes.

4.8

Looking to book tours, experiences or hotels? Let me help you...

Nestled near Artik, Armenia, Lmbatavank Monastery is a captivating architectural gem dating back to the 6th-7th centuries. Known for its intricate stone carvings and early medieval frescoes, the monastery offers a serene escape into Armenia's rich cultural and spiritual heritage.

A brief summary to Lmbatavank

JX55+73Q, Artik, AM

Local tips

Visit during the early morning or late afternoon for the best light and fewer crowds.
Wear comfortable shoes, as the terrain around the monastery can be uneven.
Take time to explore the grounds and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and scenic views.
Respect local customs and maintain silence while exploring the monastery.

Getting There

Public Transport

From Artik, Lmbatavank Monastery is approximately 5 kilometers away. You can take a taxi from the center of Artik to the monastery. Taxis can be arranged on-site, or you can ask locals for assistance. Expect to pay around 1,000 AMD for the taxi ride. Make sure to confirm the fare before starting your journey.
Walking

From the center of Artik, it is possible to walk to Lmbatavank Monastery. The walk is approximately 5 kilometers and should take a little over an hour. Follow the road leading towards the mountains, and you will find a dirt road that leads directly to Lmbatavank. Be aware that the last part of the journey may involve uneven terrain.

Discover more about Lmbatavank

Lmbatavank Monastery, also known as St. Stepanos Church, is located on a hillside near Artik in the Shirak Province of Armenia. This architectural masterpiece, dating back to the 6th-7th centuries, stands as a testament to Armenia's enduring cultural and spiritual legacy. The monastery is built from smooth-hewn tufa stone and features a unique cross-dome design with an octagonal drum. Inside the church, visitors can marvel at the fragments of well-preserved 7th-century frescoes, which offer a glimpse into early Christian Armenian art. The frescoes depict biblical scenes, including an interpretation of the "Ascension" based on the prophet Ezekiel's vision. Jesus Christ is portrayed surrounded by divine symbols and tongues of flame, with the pedestal of his throne adorned with pearls. Lmbatavank provides a tranquil atmosphere, inviting visitors to wander through its ancient corridors and soak in the peaceful surroundings. The monastery's location offers picturesque views of the rolling hills and lush greenery, creating a stunning backdrop for photographs and moments of reflection. Unlike some of the more crowded sites, Lmbatavank offers a sense of solitude and an opportunity to connect with Armenia's rich history and spirituality. Excavations in the area have revealed pedestals of khachkars (cross-stones) and graves dating back to the 9th and 10th centuries, further attesting to the site's historical significance. The monastery was abandoned in the Late Middle Ages but underwent reconstruction in the mid-20th century to restore its walls, roof, and dome.