Saghmosavank Monastery: A Sanctuary of Psalms

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Discover Saghmosavank Monastery: A medieval Armenian treasure offering stunning views and spiritual enrichment in a serene setting.

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Saghmosavank

Perched dramatically on the edge of the Kasakh River gorge, Saghmosavank Monastery is a 13th-century Armenian Apostolic complex renowned for its stunning views and spiritual significance. Founded in the village of Saghmosavan, the monastery, whose name translates to "Monastery of Psalms," was a prominent medieval center of learning and manuscript production. Its remarkable architecture and serene atmosphere make it a must-visit destination.

A brief summary to Saghmosavank

99JW+6M8, Saghmosavan, 0211, AM

Local tips

Wear comfortable shoes for walking on uneven terrain
Bring a camera to capture the scenic views of the Kasakh River gorge
Visit in the late afternoon for the best lighting for photography
Explore the complex, including the Church of Saint Zion, the Church of Saint Astvatsatsin, and the repository of manuscripts

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Getting There

Taxi

From Yerevan, a taxi is the quickest way to reach Saghmosavank. Taxis are readily available throughout Yerevan. The ride takes approximately 33 minutes, covering around 33 km. A taxi will cost approximately $10 - $13.
Public Transport

To reach Saghmosavank by public transport from Yerevan, take minibus line 253 from Yerevan Southern Bus Station to Nor Hachn. From there, take a taxi to Saghmosavank. The minibus and taxi ride will take approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes and cost $12–15.

Discover more about Saghmosavank

Saghmosavank Monastery, a 13th-century Armenian monastic complex, is located in the village of Saghmosavan in the Aragatsotn Province. The monastery is situated on the edge of the deep Kasakh River gorge. Its location provides a picturesque view of the surrounding landscape. According to legend, Gregory the Illuminator founded the church in the 4th century. He saw the location from the slopes of Mount Aragats and decided to build a church there. He then taught psalms to clergymen there, hence the name Saghmosavank, with "saghmos" meaning psalm. Historical records, however, only mention Saghmosavank at the end of the 12th century. The monastery complex includes the Church of Saint Zion, the Church of Saint Astvatsatsin (Holy Mother), a gavit (courtyard), and a repository of manuscripts. Prince Vache Vachutyan built the main church, Saint Zion, in 1215. The church is a cross-domed structure with two-story vestries. Vache Vachutyan also constructed the gavit in the first quarter of the 13th century. Prince Kurd Vachutyan, Vache's son, built the Church of Saint Astvatsatsin in 1235. The repository of manuscripts was built in 1255 by Prince Kurd Vachutyan and his wife, Khorishah, in memory of their daughter. The monastery housed a medieval higher school from the 13th century. Saghmosavank was damaged in 1988 by an earthquake but has since been restored.