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Matosavank Monastery: A Medieval Sanctuary in Dilijan's Forest

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Discover Matosavank Monastery: A serene 13th-century Armenian sanctuary hidden in Dilijan National Park's lush forests.

Tucked away in the lush forests of Dilijan National Park, Matosavank Monastery is a captivating 13th-century Armenian Apostolic complex. Its serene, secluded setting and historic ruins offer a unique glimpse into Armenia's medieval past, attracting those seeking tranquility and off-the-beaten-path exploration.

A brief summary to Matosavank Monastery

  • Abovyan St, AM
Eve
From Eve

Know before you go

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

  • Wear comfortable hiking shoes as the path to the monastery can be uneven and muddy.
  • Bring water and snacks, as there are no facilities available at the monastery.
  • Visit during late spring or early autumn for pleasant weather and lush green surroundings.
  • Combine your visit with a hike to nearby Jukhtakvank Monastery for a fuller experience of the region's monastic heritage.

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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Dilijan, head northwest on Abovyan Street. Pass under the railway bridge and continue through the wooded valley. Follow the 'Medieval Monasteries Trail' markers uphill. The hike to Matosavank takes around 30 minutes. Note that the trail can be muddy and uneven, so wear appropriate footwear.

  • Taxi

    From Dilijan city center, hire a taxi to Matosavank Monastery. The ride takes approximately 20-30 minutes. Negotiate the fare in advance, as return taxis may not be readily available at the monastery. A one-way taxi ride from Dilijan to Matosavank typically costs around 2,000-3,000 AMD.

Discover more about Matosavank Monastery

Matosavank Monastery, dating back to the 13th century, is a hidden gem nestled within the dense forests of Dilijan National Park in Armenia. Founded in 1247, the monastery served as a spiritual retreat, becoming a center for scholarly activities where monks diligently copied and preserved manuscripts. The monastery's construction was overseen by Avag, son of Ivane of the Mkhargrdzeli dynasty.The complex comprises a small church, a vestibule, and a book depository, all constructed from roughly hewn stones. The Church of the Holy Mother of God (Surb Astvatsatsin), built in 1247, features barrel vaults and stone-carved crosses. Inside the monastery, visitors can explore its chambers and admire the ancient khachkars (cross-stones) and inscriptions.Today, Matosavank stands as a testament to Armenia's rich medieval history. The monastery's moss-covered stones and the surrounding forest create a unique atmosphere, offering visitors a tranquil escape and a chance to connect with nature and history.

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