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Makaravank Monastery: A Medieval Armenian Treasure

Discover Makaravank Monastery: A hidden gem of Armenian architecture and spiritual history nestled in the Tavush region.

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Nestled in the lush Tavush Province of Armenia, Makaravank Monastery is a captivating complex dating back to the 10th-13th centuries. Surrounded by forests on the slopes of Mount Paitatap, this well-preserved site showcases the intricate artistry and architectural styles of medieval Armenia.

A brief summary to Makaravank Monastery Complex

Local tips

  • Visit in late spring or summer to enjoy the lush forest surroundings in full bloom.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as the terrain around the monastery can be uneven.
  • Take a guided tour to fully appreciate the rich history and architectural details of the complex.
  • Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and capture the best lighting for photographs.
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Getting There

  • Taxi/Car

    From Ijevan, hire a taxi or arrange for a local car to drive to Makaravank Monastery. The journey is approximately 10 kilometers and offers a scenic drive. The cost is around 1500-2500 AMD [Armenian Dram] for a one-way trip.

  • Public Transport

    Take a bus or marshrutka (minibus) from Yerevan Central Bus Station to Ijevan (approximately 2 to 2.5 hours). From Ijevan, take a local taxi to the monastery. The taxi ride is about 10 kilometers. Bus fare from Yerevan to Ijevan is approximately 800-1200 AMD. Taxi fare from Ijevan to Makaravank is approximately 1500-2500 AMD.

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Discover more about Makaravank Monastery Complex

Makaravank Monastery, located near the village of Achajur in Armenia's Tavush Province, offers a serene escape into the country's rich spiritual and architectural heritage. Founded between the 10th and 13th centuries, the complex harmoniously blends into the surrounding landscape on the slopes of Mount Paitatap. Once enclosed by fortress walls, the monastery features several structures built with pink and reddish andesite stones, including three churches, a gavit (narthex), and a relics house. The oldest church, dating back to the 10th and 11th centuries, showcases intricate carvings and geometric patterns. The main church, constructed in 1205, features a rectangular exterior and a cruciform interior, adorned with unique ornaments and bas-reliefs. The Surb Astvatsatsin (Holy Mother of God) Church, built in 1198 with white stone, stands out with its decorative stone engravings and a bell tower offering panoramic views. The complex also includes a narthex built in 1207, featuring stone carvings of bulls and lions. Visitors can explore the monastery's grounds, discovering remnants of residential houses, a cemetery with cross-stones, and a nearby spring. Makaravank not only served as a religious sanctuary but also as a center for learning, housing a theological school and scriptorium. The monastery's isolation amidst the forest creates an inspiring atmosphere, inviting contemplation and appreciation of Armenian medieval architecture.

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