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Saghmosavank Monastery: A Sanctuary of Psalms

Discover Saghmosavank Monastery: A medieval Armenian treasure perched atop the Kasakh River gorge, renowned for its spiritual significance and architecture.

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Perched dramatically on the edge of the Kasakh River gorge, Saghmosavank Monastery is a 13th-century Armenian Apostolic complex. Known as the "Monastery of Psalms," it was a significant spiritual, cultural, and educational center in medieval Armenia, renowned for its architecture and manuscript repository.

A brief summary to Saghmosavank

  • 99JW+6M8, Saghmosavan, 0211, AM

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking on uneven terrain around the monastery complex.
  • Visit during the spring or fall for pleasant weather and stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
  • Take time to explore the interior of the churches and the manuscript repository to appreciate the intricate architectural details.
  • Combine your visit with nearby attractions like the Armenian Alphabet Monument and Hovhannavank Monastery for a comprehensive cultural experience.
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Getting There

  • Taxi

    From Yerevan, a taxi is the quickest way to reach Saghmosavank. The ride is approximately 33 km and takes about 33 minutes. Expect to pay around $10-13 USD for the trip.

  • Public Transport

    To reach Saghmosavank via public transport from Yerevan, take minibus #253 from the Southern Bus Station to Nor Hachn. From there, take a taxi to Saghmosavank, which costs approximately $12-$15 USD and takes about 1 hour and 10 minutes. The minibus fare to Nor Hachn is approximately 200-300 AMD.

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Discover more about Saghmosavank

Saghmosavank Monastery, meaning "Monastery of Psalms," is a striking 13th-century Armenian monastic complex located in the village of Saghmosavan, in the Aragatsotn Province. The monastery's name is derived from 'saghmos,' the Armenian word for psalm, because Saint Gregory the Illuminator taught clergymen psalms here. The complex is situated on the edge of the precipitous Kasakh River gorge, its silhouette sharply defined against the backdrop of Mount Aragats. Founded in the 13th century by Prince Vache Vachutyan, the monastery complex includes the Church of Saint Zion, the Church of Saint Astvatsatsin (Holy Mother), a gavit (a type of narthex or entrance hall), and a manuscript repository. The Church of Saint Zion, constructed in 1215, is a cross-domed structure with two-story vestries. The interior boasts a magnificent subcupola space, reflected in the building's exterior. The gavit was built in the first quarter of the 13th century. The Church of Saint Astvatsatsin was built in 1235 by Prince Kurd Vachutyan. The manuscript repository, built in 1255, is particularly notable for its unique design and served as a center for learning. Many manuscripts were created and copied here, and the school operated until the end of the 17th century, solidifying Saghmosavank's place as one of the largest spiritual, cultural, and educational centers of medieval Armenia. The monastery suffered damage during the 1988 earthquake but was reconstructed, restoring its exquisite beauty. Today, Saghmosavank stands as a testament to Armenia's rich religious and architectural heritage, offering visitors a serene and spiritually enriching experience.

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