Nor Varagavank Monastery: A Medieval Armenian Treasure

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.