Hovhannavank, Aragatsotn Travel Guide

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Discover Hovhannavank Monastery: A medieval Armenian treasure with stunning architecture and rich religious history, overlooking the Kasagh River canyon.

Hovhannavank Monastery, located near Ohanavan village, is a significant religious and architectural monument in Armenia. Founded in the 4th century and expanded over centuries, it showcases stunning stone architecture and offers breathtaking views of the Kasagh River canyon.

A brief summary to Hovhannavank

89QQ+QCH, Ohanavan, 0225, AM

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Hovhannavank.

Wear comfortable shoes for walking on the uneven stone surfaces within the monastery complex.
Visit during the warmer months (May-October) to enjoy the best weather and clear views of the surrounding landscape.
Consider hiring a local guide to learn more about the history and significance of the monastery.
Take time to explore the Kasagh River canyon for breathtaking views and photo opportunities.

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Getting There

Public Transport

From the main bus station in Aragatsotn, take a marshrutka (minibus) towards Ohanavan. The fare is approximately 300 AMD. The journey takes about 30 minutes. Once in Ohanavan, you can walk (about 30 minutes) or take a taxi to Hovhannavank. A taxi should cost around 1000 AMD.
Taxi

A direct taxi from Aragatsotn to Hovhannavank typically costs around 2000 AMD and takes about 20 minutes. Taxis can be found via apps like U Taxi, Taxi Viva, or Noy Taxi.
Car

From the center of Aragatsotn, drive towards Ohanavan village. Follow the main road north for approximately 12 km until you see signs for Hovhannavank. Turn right and continue for about 3 km to reach the monastery. Parking is available near the entrance.

Discover more about Hovhannavank

Hovhannavank Monastery, majestically situated on the edge of the Kasagh River canyon in the Aragatsotn Province of Armenia, is a testament to the country's rich religious and architectural history. The monastery's location, adjacent to Ohanavan village, provides stunning views of the surrounding landscapes.Founded in the 4th century by St. Gregory the Illuminator, who is believed to have buried relics of John the Baptist here, the monastery has evolved over centuries. The oldest structure, the basilica of St. Karapet (John the Baptist), dates back to this early period. The main church, constructed between 1216 and 1221 with the donation of Prince Vache Vachutian, represents the pinnacle of Armenian ecclesiastical architecture.The complex features a blend of architectural styles, including the single-nave basilica and the cruciform domed Church of Karapet. The monastery also includes a large vestibule (gavit) built in 1250, known for its intricate interior decorations. The eastern facade of the church is notable for its unique vertical arrangement of decorative elements, possibly influenced by Georgian art. Hovhannavank served as an important educational and theological center between the 12th and 17th centuries, with a scriptorium where manuscripts were created.Legends and historical accounts intertwine within Hovhannavank's walls. A secret passage is said to have led to the Kasagh River canyon, used for escape during attacks. Today, about 20 manuscripts from Hovhannavank are preserved in the Matenadaran Museum in Yerevan. Visitors can explore the monastery's various structures, admire the carved details, and soak in the serene atmosphere, reflecting on the spiritual and cultural significance of this historical site.