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Nor Varagavank Monastery: A Medieval Armenian Treasure

Discover Nor Varagavank: A 13th-century Armenian monastery with stunning architecture, rich history, and breathtaking views in the Tavush Province.

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Nestled in the Tavush Province of Armenia, Nor Varagavank is a stunning 13th-century monastery surrounded by forested mountains and picturesque ravines. Originally named Anapat, it was renamed in honor of the famed Varagavank monastery after it was threatened by Mongol invasions.

A brief summary to Nor Varagavank

  • 4216, AM

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes, as the monastery is located on a hilltop and requires some walking.
  • Visit on a clear day to fully appreciate the panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
  • Explore the intricate carvings and khachkars (cross-stones) throughout the complex.
  • If traveling from Yerevan, consider taking the longer route (M4 and H37) as the road through Berd (H36) may be in poor condition.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    To reach Nor Varagavank via public transport, travel to the central bus station in Tavush. From there, take a minibus (marshrutka) towards Varagavan village. The monastery is located 3.5 km southwest of the village. From Varagavan, you may need to hire a taxi or walk the remaining distance to the monastery, which is situated on a high hill.

  • Taxi

    From Ijevan, a taxi to Nor Varagavank will cost approximately 2,000-3,000 AMD. Confirm the price with the driver before starting the journey. The ride takes around 30-40 minutes.

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Discover more about Nor Varagavank

Nor Varagavank, meaning "New Varagavank", is a captivating monastic complex dating back to the 12th and 13th centuries. Located 3.5 km southwest of Varagavan village in the Tavush Province of Armenia, the monastery sits on a high hill, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Founded by King David II Kyurikian of northern Armenia between 1193 and 1198, the complex was expanded by his grandson Vasak II from 1224 to 1237. The Kyurikians were a junior branch of the Bagratuni family, who ruled over the Kingdom of Tashir-Dzoraget. Originally called Anapat (meaning hermitage), the monastery was renamed Nor Varagavank in the 13th century, when the famed Varagavank monastery in Western Armenia was threatened by Mongol invasions. Patriarch Ghukas of Varagavank brought holy relics, including a piece of the True Cross, to Anapat in 1213. The monastery complex includes several significant structures. The most important is the Church of the Holy Virgin, designed by architect Hovhan from Ani. Consecrated in 1240, the church is rectangular on the outside and cruciform on the inside. The Surb Nshan (Holy Sign) chapel, built in 1198 by David Bagratuni, is the oldest structure in the complex. Other notable features include a two-story burial vault built in 1200 and several intricately carved khachkars (cross-stones). Nor Varagavank served as a crucial religious center and the Kyurikian family's mausoleum. The monastery also played a significant role in the ecclesiastical life of medieval Armenia. Today, Nor Varagavank stands as a testament to Armenia's rich history and architectural heritage, drawing visitors with its serene atmosphere and stunning craftsmanship.

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