Ardvi Monastery, Lori Travel Guide

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Discover Ardvi Monastery: A historical sanctuary in Armenia's Lori region, offering serene beauty and a glimpse into the past.

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Ardvi Monastery

Nestled in the Lori region of Armenia, Ardvi Monastery, also known as St. Hovhannes Monastery, is a captivating historical landmark. With its two churches, a belfry, and ancient cross-stones, the monastery offers a serene escape and a glimpse into Armenia's rich cultural heritage.

A brief summary to Ardvi Monastery

2H9Q+W39, Ardvi, 1717, AM

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Ardvi Monastery.

Visit on weekdays for a quieter, more peaceful experience.
Take your time to explore both buildings and read the information panels to learn about the monastery's history.
Be prepared for narrow doorways when entering the chambers.

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Other nearby places you may find interesting

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Explore Ardvi Monastery on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Ardvi Monastery, mapped for you.

Getting There

Taxi

From Alaverdi, a taxi is the most direct way to reach Ardvi Monastery. Taxis are readily available in Alaverdi; a 5km ride in Alaverdi costs about 1000 AMD. Agree on a fare before starting your journey. The cost should be around 3,000-4,000 AMD (approximately $8-$10 USD) for the trip to Ardvi.
Public Transport

From Alaverdi, take a marshrutka (minibus) towards Vanadzor. From Vanadzor, transfer to a local bus or taxi that goes to Ardvi. Ensure you check the schedules in advance as they can vary. The marshrutka from Alaverdi to Vanadzor costs approximately 500 AMD. The cost of local transport from Vanadzor to Ardvi will vary.

Discover more about Ardvi Monastery

Ardvi Monastery, or St. Hovhannes Monastery, is located in the village of Ardvi, nestled in the Lori region of Armenia. This iconic monastery, dating back to between the 8th and 17th centuries, provides visitors with a unique opportunity to connect with Armenia's rich history and experience a sense of tranquility. The monastery is also called St. Hovhan Odzneci or Srbanes monastery.The complex comprises two small churches, single-nave vaulted halls connected by a shared longitudinal wall, a belfry, and monastic buildings, all surrounded by an uneven, low-rise enclosure. Within the monastery grounds, visitors can admire a tetrahedral monument, khachkars (cross-stones), and the ruins of residential and utility structures. A small vaulted hall was added to the western facade of the church in the 13th century, and in the 17th century, a belfry was erected south of the churches. The lower tier of the belfry is cube-shaped and crowned with a rotunda supported by six columns. To the west of the monastery lies a medieval graveyard adorned with eye-catching khachkars, while to the south is the ancestral tomb of the Kalantaryans, one of Ardvi's oldest noble families.The monastery is also known for its connection to the Armenian film, 'The Color of Pomegranates' by Sergei Parajanov, with scenes having been filmed on location. The monastery's remote location offers a peaceful escape, making it an ideal place for quiet reflection.