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Holy Mother of God Church: A Spiritual and Architectural Gem

Discover the Holy Mother of God Church in Areni, a masterpiece of Armenian architecture with a rich history and serene atmosphere.

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The Holy Mother of God Church in Areni is a stunning example of 14th-century Armenian architecture. Designed by the renowned architect Momik, the church stands as a testament to Armenia's rich cultural and religious history, featuring intricate carvings and a serene atmosphere that beckons visitors to reflect and contemplate.

A brief summary to Holy Mother of God Church

  • P5FQ+JQP, Areni, 3604, AM
  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Visit during a local festival to experience traditional Armenian culture and celebrations.
  • Explore the surrounding vineyards and enjoy some of Armenia's famous wines.
  • Don't forget your camera; the views of the church against the backdrop of Areni's landscapes are breathtaking.
  • Dress modestly when visiting the church, as it is a sacred site.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Areni-1 Cave, where the world's oldest winery was discovered.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Holy Mother of God Church is located on a plateau overlooking the Arpa River and the village of Areni. From the center of Areni, the church is easily accessible on foot. The walk uphill takes approximately 10-15 minutes, offering scenic views of the village and surrounding vineyards.

  • Public Transport

    To reach Areni by public transport, take a minibus from Yerevan's Kilikia Bus Station to Yeghegnadzor. From Yeghegnadzor, you can take a taxi to Areni, which is approximately 15-20 minutes away. Once in Areni, the church is a short walk from the village center. Minibus fare from Yerevan to Yeghegnadzor is approximately 2400-3800 AMD. A taxi from Yeghegnadzor to Areni will cost around 2000-3000 AMD.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Yerevan and can take you directly to Areni. The journey takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours. From Yerevan, a taxi to Areni will cost approximately 14,400-19,200 AMD. Once in Areni, the taxi can drop you off near the village center, from where it is a short walk to the church.

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Discover more about Holy Mother of God Church

Nestled in the picturesque village of Areni, the Holy Mother of God Church is a striking example of Armenian ecclesiastical architecture dating back to 1321. Designed and built by the architect and artist Momik, who also contributed to the famous Noravank Monastery, the church showcases the region's religious artistry and cultural pride. The church's location on a high hill overlooking the Arpa River adds to its majestic presence. Constructed from local ashlar stone, the church features a single nave with two aisles and a semi-circular eastern apse. The exterior boasts a classical Armenian-style conical dome with a pronounced drum and cupola, adorned with relief carvings depicting the tetramorph – a winged lion, ox, man, and eagle representing the four Evangelists. The main entrance features a high-relief sculpture of the Virgin Mary holding the infant Jesus. Inside, the church offers a tranquil atmosphere, inviting visitors to admire the stunning religious icons and ornate altar. The interior design includes unique architectural solutions for its time, such as the dome resting on paired piers and columns, and cruciform windows in the altar, innovations introduced by Momik. The surrounding area is rich with tombstones and khachkars (cross-stones), reflecting the area's historical significance. Nearby, you can find the ruins of a 13th-century royal palace founded by Lord Tarsaitch Orbelian. The church remains an active place of worship for the villagers of Areni.

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