Sevanavank Monastery, Lori Highlands Travel Guide

Sevanavank Monastery, located on the northwestern shore of Lake Sevan, is one of Armenia's most recognizable landmarks. The monastery's history dates back to 874 AD when Princess Mariam, daughter of King Ashot I, founded it. The location was strategically important; the island was fortified as early as the Bronze Age and served as a stronghold in the 9th century.Originally built on an island, the monastery became a peninsula due to the Soviet-era draining of Lake Sevan, which lowered the water level by approximately 20 meters. While this change altered the landscape, it also made the monastery more accessible. Today, the complex offers stunning views of the lake, which can change color from turquoise to grey depending on the weather.Two churches remain standing: Surb Arakelots (Holy Apostles) and Surb Astvatsatsin (Holy Mother of God), both built in the 9th century. Constructed from black tuff stone, they exhibit cross-shaped designs, intricate masonry, and unique architectural features. Inside Surb Arakelots, visitors can find a khachkar (cross-stone) depicting Jesus Christ with Mongol features, reflecting the artistic styles of the 12th and 13th centuries. Numerous other khachkars are scattered around the grounds.Sevanavank was known for its strict monastic discipline, housing monks who had fallen out of favor. Over the centuries, the monastery faced invasions but persevered as a spiritual and cultural center. Although the monastery ceased to function in 1930 when the last monk left, it has since been restored and remains an important pilgrimage site and a popular tourist destination.