Saint Grigor Lusavorich Church, Ohanavan

The Saint Grigor Lusavorich Church, often referred to as Anapat (meaning "desert" or "hermitage"), is a modest yet historically significant religious site located near the village of Ohanavan in Armenia. Perched on a high rocky promontory on the right bank of the Kasakh River gorge, north of Hovhannavank Monastery, the church provides a serene escape with panoramic views. According to local tradition, the church's origins trace back to the 4th century when Saint Gregory the Illuminator, the patron saint of Armenia, retreated to the Kasakh Gorge for hermitage after descending from Mount Aragats. However, the current structure dates back to 1311, as evidenced by a construction inscription on the western facade and the entrance. The inscription reveals that a priest named Astvatsatur, nicknamed Asnavor, built the church using his own funds, dedicating it to Saint Gregory the Illuminator. Asnavor's extensive construction activities are further documented in a 1324 inscription at the Karmravor Church of Ashtarak. The church itself is a small, single-nave vaulted structure with a rectangular layout. The interior features a semicircular apse in the eastern part, along with a small altar. Light enters the space through openings on the western, southern, and eastern facades. A baptistery is located on the northern wall. The church is constructed from gray, smoothly hewn tuff stones held together with lime mortar. Despite its modest size, the Saint Grigor Lusavorich Church offers a unique glimpse into Armenia's religious heritage and the life of Saint Gregory the Illuminator. Its secluded location and historical significance make it a worthwhile destination for those exploring the Aragatsotn region.