Akhtala Monastery-Fortress: A Fusion of Art and Defense
Explore Akhtala Monastery-Fortress: A medieval Armenian treasure with stunning frescoes and rich history, nestled in the Lori region.
Nestled in the Lori region of Armenia, the Akhtala Monastery-Fortress is a 10th-century architectural marvel known for its stunning frescoes and strategic defensive location. Once called Pghndzahank, meaning 'Coppermine Monastery,' it stands as a testament to Armenia's rich religious, artistic, and military history.
A brief summary to Akhtala Monastery Fortress
- 5Q27+5HW, Akhtala, AM
- +37495545441
Local tips
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking on the fortress grounds, as the terrain can be uneven.
- Visit during the annual pilgrimage days (September 20-21) to experience the monastery's vibrant atmosphere.
- Take your time to admire the well-preserved frescoes inside the main church, a unique example of Armenian-Byzantine art.
Getting There
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Car
From Yerevan, take the M6 highway north towards Tbilisi. The journey to Akhtala is approximately 185 km and takes around 3.5 hours. Once in Akhtala, follow the road signs to the monastery. Note that the road leading to the monastery is a serpentine road. Parking is available near the entrance.
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Public Transport
From Yerevan, take a bus from Hayreniq Tour Office to Alaverdi. The bus journey takes approximately 2.5 hours and costs around $20-$28. From Alaverdi, take a taxi to Akhtala Monastery, which costs around 1,500-2,000 AMD. Alternatively, you can take a marshrutka (shared minibus) from Dilijan to Alaverdi, which takes 30-40 minutes and costs around 500 AMD. From Alaverdi, a taxi to Akhtala Monastery will cost approximately 1,500-2,000 AMD.
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