Gavazan: The Swinging Column of Tatev
Discover Gavazan, the ancient swinging column at Tatev Monastery, a testament to Armenia's medieval ingenuity and earthquake detection system.
Gavazan, located in Tatev Monastery, is an oscillating pillar engineered to sway with seismic activity, acting as an ancient earthquake detection system. Crafted from limestone, it stands as a testament to medieval Armenian architectural ingenuity and defensive strategies.
A brief summary to Gavazan
- 97H2+P58, H45, Tatev, 3218, AM
Local tips
- Visit in the late spring or early autumn for pleasant weather and lush green landscapes.
- Combine your visit to Gavazan with a tour of the Tatev Monastery to explore its rich history and architecture.
- Take the Wings of Tatev cable car for stunning aerial views of the Vorotan Gorge.
- Explore other nearby attractions such as the Devil's Bridge and the abandoned cave city of Khndzoresk.
Getting There
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Walking
Gavazan is located within the Tatev Monastery complex. Once you enter the monastery grounds, follow the signs or ask a local for directions to the column, which is situated to the south of the main cathedral. The area is easily walkable.
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Public Transport
From Yerevan, take a marshrutka (minibus) to Goris from the Southern Bus Station (approx. 3,000 AMD, 4 hours). Stay overnight in Goris and hire a taxi to Tatev Monastery (approx. 2,500 AMD). Alternatively, the Wings of Tatev cable car can be accessed by taxi from Goris to Halidzor village (approx. 2,500 AMD). A roundtrip ticket on the Wings of Tatev costs 9,000 AMD.
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Taxi
From Goris, a taxi to Tatev Monastery costs approximately 2,500 AMD. A taxi to the Wings of Tatev cable car in Halidzor village also costs around 2,500 AMD. Negotiate a round-trip fare if you want the driver to wait for you.
Discover more about Gavazan
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Unmissable attractions to see
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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