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Haghartsin Monastery: A Jewel in Dilijan National Park

Discover Haghartsin Monastery, a medieval architectural treasure nestled in the heart of Armenia's stunning Dilijan National Park.

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Nestled within the lush forests of Dilijan National Park, Haghartsin Monastery is a stunning example of Armenian medieval architecture dating back to the 10th-13th centuries. The complex harmoniously blends with nature, offering visitors a serene and historically rich experience.

A brief summary to Dilijan National Park

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking on uneven stone surfaces within the monastery complex and surrounding areas.
  • Bring water and snacks, as there are limited options for purchasing refreshments near the monastery.
  • Consider visiting during the shoulder seasons (April-May or September-October) for pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
  • Explore the surrounding trails for hiking opportunities and to fully appreciate the natural beauty of Dilijan National Park.
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Getting There

  • Taxi

    From the town center of Dilijan, taxis are readily available to take visitors to Haghartsin Monastery. The drive is approximately 25 minutes along a road northeast of town. A round trip taxi fare typically costs around 4,000 AMD. Negotiate the price beforehand.

  • Public Transport

    To reach Haghartsin Monastery via public transport, take a marshrutka (minibus) from Dilijan to Haghartsin village. From there, it's a short taxi ride or a walk to the monastery. The marshrutka fare is around 200 AMD. A taxi from Haghartsin village to the monastery should cost approximately 1,000-2,000 AMD.

  • Car

    From Dilijan, head north-east on the road towards Ijevan. After approximately 8 km, turn left following the signs for Haghartsin Monastery. Continue for another 6 km to reach the monastery complex. Parking is available near the entrance. A small fee of around 500 AMD may be charged. Make sure to have some cash ready.

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Discover more about Dilijan National Park

Haghartsin Monastery, meaning 'Eagle's Game' in Armenian, is a captivating monastic complex located 18 km from Dilijan, deep within the Tavush region's dense forests. Founded between the 10th and 13th centuries, the monastery flourished as a significant cultural and educational center in medieval Armenia. Its remote location, embraced by nature, provides a tranquil escape. The monastery complex features several notable structures : * **St. Gregory Church:** The oldest structure, dating back to the 11th century. * **St. Astvatsatsin (Holy Mother of God) Church:** Reconstructed in 1281, it's the largest structure in the complex, adorned with a 16-sided dome. * **St. Stepanos Church:** A smaller church built in 1244, resembling a miniature version of St. Gregory. * **The Refectory:** Built in 1248 by architect Minas, showcasing exceptional Armenian architecture. Its roof rests on columns, a testament to medieval Armenia's advanced mathematics. Legends surround Haghartsin, including one explaining its name: an eagle flew around the main church's dome during its opening ceremony. Some believe underground passages connect the complex to the river below, and that one of the twelve columns supporting the main structure was hollow, used to hide valuables. Today, Haghartsin Monastery stands as a testament to Armenia's rich religious and cultural heritage, drawing visitors with its stunning architecture and peaceful ambiance.

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