Noravank, Shirak Travel Guide

4.9 (2117)

Discover Noravank Monastery, a 13th-century Armenian treasure nestled amidst stunning red cliffs, showcasing unique architecture and rich history.

Nestled in a breathtaking gorge carved by the Amaghu River, Noravank is a 13th-century Armenian monastery renowned for its stunning architecture and dramatic setting amidst towering red cliffs. This historical and cultural center features unique khachkars and the iconic two-story Surb Astvatsatsin Church, making it a must-see destination in Armenia.

A brief summary to Noravank

Noravank Monastery Rd, 3604, AM

Monday 9 am-8 pm
Tuesday 9 am-8 pm
Wednesday 9 am-8 pm
Thursday 9 am-8 pm
Friday 9 am-8 pm
Saturday 9 am-8 pm
Sunday 9 am-8 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

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

Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the monastery grounds and navigating the narrow staircase of Surb Astvatsatsin Church.
Visit the on-site museum to gain a deeper understanding of Noravank's history and significance (entrance fee is 500 AMD).
Combine your visit to Noravank with a trip to the nearby Areni village, famous for its wine production and the Areni-1 Cave, the world's oldest winery.
Consider visiting in the spring to enjoy the beautiful scenery and ideal birdwatching conditions in the surrounding canyon.

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Explore Noravank on the Map

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

Getting There

Car

The most convenient way to reach Noravank is by car from Yerevan, approximately 120 km away. The drive takes about 2-3 hours, offering scenic views through picturesque villages and semi-desert landscapes. Follow the M2 highway south. As you approach the monastery, the road winds through the dramatic Amaghu Gorge. Parking is available near the monastery, with a possible fee of 100 AMD.
Public Transport

To reach Noravank by public transport, take a marshrutka (minibus) from Yerevan's Arshakunyats Bus Station to Yeghegnadzor. Minibuses run from 8:00 to 19:00 daily, with tickets costing around 1,000 AMD. The journey takes just under 2 hours. From Yeghegnadzor, hire a taxi to cover the final 12 km to Noravank. A taxi ride will cost approximately 2,000-3,000 AMD.

Discover more about Noravank

Noravank, meaning "New Monastery," is a captivating monastic complex dating back to the 13th century. Founded by Bishop Hovhannes in 1105, it quickly rose to prominence as a spiritual, educational, and cultural hub in medieval Armenia. The monastery is located 122 km from Yerevan, near the town of Yeghegnadzor, in a narrow gorge formed by the Amaghu River. This dramatic gorge, with its towering, sheer, brick-red cliffs, provides a breathtaking backdrop to the monastery, enhancing its allure.Noravank's architecture is a testament to the Orbelian princes, who supported the monastery's growth and invited talented architects and artists like Siranes and the renowned sculptor and miniaturist Momik. The complex includes several noteworthy structures: the Surb Astvatsatsin Church (Holy Mother of God), the Surb Karapet Church (St. John the Baptist), and the Surb Grigor Chapel. The Surb Astvatsatsin Church, built in the 1330s, is particularly striking with its two-story design, intricate carvings, and a narrow stone staircase leading to the upper level. The lower level served as a mausoleum for the Orbelian family. Surb Karapet Church, originally built in the 9th century and reconstructed in 1216-1227 after an earthquake, showcases a cross-within-square design. The Surb Grigor Chapel, added in 1275, served as the tomb of Prince Smbat Orbelyan.Noravank was not only a religious center but also an important educational hub, closely connected with the University of Gladzor and its library. The monastery's history is rich with legends, including the tale of Momik, who, according to legend, was commissioned to build a temple of unmatched beauty in exchange for the hand of Prince Orbelian's daughter. Today, Noravank is a popular tourist destination, drawing visitors with its stunning architecture, historical significance, and the dramatic natural beauty of the Amaghu Gorge.