Sanahin Monastery Complex: A Medieval Armenian Treasure
Explore the medieval Armenian architecture and rich history of Sanahin Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Lori Province.
Nestled in the Lori Province of Armenia, the Sanahin Monastery Complex is a UNESCO World Heritage site showcasing stunning medieval Armenian architecture. Founded in the 10th century, it served as a vital religious, educational, and cultural center, leaving a lasting legacy of khachkars, churches, and ancient structures.
A brief summary to Sanahin Monastery Complex
- 3MP8+WC8, Alaverdi, Sanahin, 1705, AM
Local tips
- Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be walking on uneven stone surfaces throughout the monastery complex.
- Visit during the warmer months (March - October) to enjoy the best weather and avoid potential snow.
- Take a guided tour to fully appreciate the history and significance of the monastery's various structures.
- Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Haghpat Monastery, another UNESCO World Heritage site.
- Consider bringing cash for donations or to purchase souvenirs from nearby kiosks.
Getting There
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Public Transport
From Alaverdi city center, take Marshrutka #3 to the Sanahin suburb. The ride takes about 10 minutes and costs 100 AMD. The marshrutka will drop you off in a central square, from which you'll need to walk to the monastery.
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available in Alaverdi. A taxi ride from the city center to Sanahin Monastery typically costs around 1000 AMD and takes approximately 10 minutes. You can hail a taxi on the street or use a ride-hailing app.
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Walking
If you are near the Sanahin Bridge in Alaverdi, you can walk to the monastery, though it is an uphill trek. Follow the road leading towards Sanahin village. The walk is roughly 2-3 kilometers and will take approximately 30-45 minutes. Be prepared for a moderately steep incline.
Discover more about Sanahin Monastery Complex
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Sanahin Bridge Hotel
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Hotel Lalvar
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ArmBee Honey Farm
2.2 km
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Old City Hotel
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Koshaberd Fortress
2.2 km
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Zarni-Parni
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Haghpat Hotel
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Saint Nshan Church
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Kusanats Anapat Church
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LORI CANYON
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Rafting house in Odzun
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Unmissable attractions to see
Mikoyan Brothers Museum
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Mendz Er Cave
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Sanahin Bridge
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Алаверди
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Kayan Fortress
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Haghpat Monastery Complex
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Odzun Church
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Horomayri
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Sedvi monastery
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Qari Glukh Viewpoint
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Tumanyan Matchbox Label Museum
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Odzi port
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Surb Hovhannes Monastery Complex
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Ardvi Monastery
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Essential places to dine
مطعم تل رمانة
0.7 km
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OJAKH Restaurant Hotel
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Holiday Factory Restaurant
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Coliseum
1.2 km
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Karap Cafe
1.6 km
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Vartans Schashlik/Grill
1.7 km
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OLD MANES
1.7 km
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Buffet
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Melkonyans House
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Innwoods Hotel
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Barbecue
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Restaurant Atorick
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TAVERN HAGHPAT
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
MONA sweet
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Tamazyan foods cort
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Ideal shopping
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Your Flowers Flower Shop / Ծաղկի սրահ
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Zara flowers
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Sekart food
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Ojakh market
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Dream Coffee
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Sochut Bar
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yasınınbavasınınöyü
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Aghababyan wine
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Edem National Restaurant
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Tagavoranist
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Lunch House
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Maran
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Jazz Cafe
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Sajj Terouh Setté
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