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Great Hermitage of Tatev: A Sanctuary in the Vorotan Valley

Discover the Great Hermitage of Tatev, a 17th-century Armenian monastery offering a glimpse into the region's rich history and architectural wonders.

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The Great Hermitage of Tatev, or Tatevi Mets Anapat, is a 17th-century Armenian monastery nestled in the Vorotan River valley in Armenia's Syunik Province. Following the destruction of the Harants Hermitage by an earthquake in 1658, Catholicos Hakob IV Jughayetsi ordered its construction in the 1660s. The hermitage was a prominent religious center that once housed over 700 congregates.

A brief summary to Great Hermitage of Tatev

  • 97Q6+3F9, Tatev, AM

Local tips

  • Check the operating times for the 'Wings of Tatev' tramway before planning your visit, as it is subject to weather conditions and seasonal schedules.
  • Wear comfortable shoes as there is uneven terrain around the monastery.
  • Bring water and snacks, especially if you plan to hike or if you're visiting during the summer months.
  • Respect the monastery's sanctity by dressing appropriately; this means covering shoulders and knees.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    To reach the Great Hermitage of Tatev via public transport, begin by taking a marshrutka (minibus) from Yerevan's Southern Bus Terminal to Goris. These depart at 9 AM and 3 PM and cost approximately 3000 AMD. The journey takes around 4 hours, with a stop in Yeghegnadzor. From Goris, take a taxi to Halidzor village, which costs around 2,500 AMD. From Halidzor, take the Wings of Tatev cable car to Tatev Monastery. A one-way ticket on the cable car costs 6,500 AMD. From the Tatev Monastery, a steep switchback road descends to the Hermitage.

  • Taxi

    To reach the Great Hermitage of Tatev by taxi, you can hire a taxi directly from Yerevan. The price from Yerevan to Tatev by taxi is approximately 25,000 AMD and takes 4-5 hours. Alternatively, take a taxi from Goris to the Tatev Monastery, which is about 31 km and takes approximately 32 minutes, costing around $10-$13. From the Tatev Monastery, a steep switchback road descends to the Hermitage.

  • Car

    To reach the Great Hermitage of Tatev by car, drive from Yerevan to Tatev, which is about 256 kilometers and takes approximately 4.5 – 5 hours. From the village of Tatev, follow the signs to the Great Hermitage of Tatev. Park in the designated area near the entrance. The hermitage is about a 10-minute walk from the parking lot.

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Discover more about Great Hermitage of Tatev

Nestled in the picturesque Vorotan River valley of Syunik Province, Armenia, lies the Great Hermitage of Tatev, also known as Tatevi Mets Anapat. This 17th-century Armenian monastery is a true hidden gem, offering visitors a glimpse into the region's rich history and architectural wonders. The construction of the Great Hermitage of Tatev began in 1660, following the destruction of the Harants hermitage located on the same cliff. Under the guidance of Hakob patriarch, the former congregation was transferred to the newly built Tatevi Mets Anapat. This religious center played a prominent role in the religious life of Armenia, with over 700 congregates residing within its walls. The layout of the complex mimics its predecessor, with rectangular limestone walls, beautiful towers, and an aligned structure. The main building stands out with its grand pillars and intricate details, showcasing the architectural prowess of the time. Despite its isolation from the outer world, there is one vantage point from which the entire complex is visible - the facing slope of the Vorotan gorge, which can be reached via the sinuous road leading to the Monastery Complex of Tatev. The complex had barns, a refectory with a kitchen and stone-made tables, residential areas and the St. Astavatsatsin basalt church (1663) with its chapel and churchyard (1743) that came to finalize the picture of this complex as a religious monument. Exploring the Great Hermitage of Tatev allows visitors to fully immerse themselves in the region's cultural and historical heritage. The surrounding area offers ample opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts, with hiking trails winding through the lush walnut and fig trees, providing a chance to connect with nature while enjoying panoramic views of the Vorotan River valley.

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