Saghmosavank Monastery: A Sanctuary of Psalms

Saghmosavank Monastery, meaning 'Monastery of the Psalms', is a captivating monastic complex located in the village of Saghmosavan, in Armenia's Aragatsotn Province. The monastery's history is intertwined with the early days of Christianity in Armenia, with some legends attributing its foundation to St. Gregory the Illuminator in the 4th century. According to this legend, St. Gregory saw the location from Mount Aragats and decided to build a church there, later teaching psalms to clergymen. However, historical records only mention Saghmosavank towards the end of the 12th century. The monastery complex primarily dates back to the 13th century when it was constructed by the Vachutyan princely family. The main church, known as Saint Zion (Surb Sion), was erected in 1215 by Prince Vache Vachutyan. The architectural style of Saint Zion is a cross-winged domed structure, typical of the period, featuring two-story annexes. The monastery complex also includes the Church of Saint Astvatsatsin (Holy Mother of God), built in 1235 by Prince Kurd Vachutyan, Vache's son, and a repository of manuscripts constructed in 1255. The repository served as a library and housed a collection of invaluable manuscripts. Saghmosavank's location on the edge of the deep Kasakh River gorge (200m) provides breathtaking panoramic views. From this vantage point, visitors can see Mount Ararat, Mount Aragats and Mount Ara. Over the centuries, Saghmosavank served as a significant spiritual, cultural, and educational center in medieval Armenia. A higher school operated within the monastery walls from the 13th century onwards. Although the monastery suffered damage over time, including a major earthquake in 1988, it has been renovated, allowing visitors to appreciate its exquisite architecture and historical importance.