Tripeak Trail and Nature Pilgrimage Trail Start
Tripeak Trail: A Hiker's Delight in Dilijan National Park
Matosavank Monastery: A Forested Sanctuary
Discover the serene beauty of Matosavank Monastery, a 13th-century Armenian treasure hidden in Dilijan National Park's lush forests.
Tucked away in Dilijan National Park, Matosavank Monastery is a 13th-century Armenian Apostolic complex offering a tranquil escape. Its moss-covered ruins, including a church, vestibule, and scriptorium, blend seamlessly with the surrounding forest, creating a serene and mystical atmosphere for visitors seeking solitude and historical immersion.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to Matosavank Monastery
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
Abovyan St, AM
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Getting There
Walking
From Dilijan, follow Abovyan Street northwest, passing under the railway viaduct. Continue along the road as it turns into a rough track. Look for an information board detailing the 'Trail of Medieval Monasteries'. Cross the river via the footbridge and follow the trail markers uphill through the woods. The walk to Matosavank takes approximately 30 minutes from the information board. Be prepared for uneven terrain and potential mud.
Taxi
From Dilijan city center, hire a taxi to Matosavank Monastery. The drive takes approximately 20-30 minutes depending on traffic. Negotiate the fare in advance, as return taxis from the monastery may not be readily available. A one-way taxi ride from Dilijan to Matosavank typically costs around 2,000-3,000 AMD.
Local tips
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Wear sturdy hiking shoes for the uneven and potentially muddy trails leading to the monastery.
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Bring water and snacks, as there are no facilities available at the monastery.
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Visit during late spring or early autumn for pleasant weather and lush green scenery.
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Use a GPS or offline map, as trail markers can be misleading.
Discover more about Matosavank Monastery
Matosavank Monastery, a hidden gem within Dilijan National Park, offers a serene escape into Armenia's medieval past. Founded in the 13th century, likely by Avag Zakarian-Mkhargrdzeli, the monastery provided a secluded retreat for monks. The temple complex was built in honor of the victory of the united Armenian-Georgian army over the Seljuk Turks.
The complex comprises a small church, a vestibule, and a scriptorium (book depository), all constructed from roughly hewn stones. The Church of the Holy Mother of God (Surb Astvatsatsin), built in 1205, features a vaulted ceiling and houses ancient khachkars (cross-stones). The monastery's interior walls are covered in moss, and the collapsed dome adds to its weathered charm.
Visiting Matosavank is an immersive experience, requiring a walk through a forest trail. The monastery's remote location ensured its protection from invaders and offers visitors a peaceful connection with nature and history. The silence is broken only by the sounds of the forest, enhancing the spiritual atmosphere. While the ruins may be modest, the site exudes a unique energy, blending nature, history, and mystery.
A brief summary to Matosavank Monastery
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