Noratus Cemetery, Vayots Dzor Travel Guide

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Explore Armenia's largest collection of medieval khachkars at Noratus Cemetery, a unique cultural and historical treasure near Lake Sevan.

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Noratus Cemetery

Noratus Cemetery, near Lake Sevan, is home to Armenia's largest collection of khachkars, intricately carved medieval Armenian cross-stones. These stones, dating from the 9th to the 17th centuries, offer a glimpse into Armenian history and craftsmanship, making it a unique and culturally significant site.

A brief summary to Noratus Cemetery

95FJ+WHG, Noratus, AM

From Eve

Know before you go

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

Wear comfortable shoes, as the terrain is uneven.
Visit during the morning or afternoon for the best light to view and photograph the khachkars.
Dress modestly to respect the site's cultural and religious significance.
Consider hiring a local guide to learn more about the history and symbolism of the khachkars.
Be respectful of the stones and avoid touching or damaging them.

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Explore Noratus Cemetery on the Map

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Getting There

Public Transport

To reach Noratus Cemetery from Yerevan, take a minibus (marshrutka) from Yerevan's North Bus Station to Gavar. These depart approximately every 30 minutes, with a journey time of around 2 hours. The ticket costs about 1100 AMD. From Gavar, take another minibus to Noratus village, which leaves from the central square (crossroads of Grigor Lusavorich and Boshnagyan streets) approximately every 15 minutes between 08:30 and 14:30. Once in Noratus, the cemetery is a short walk (about 1 kilometer) southeast from the village center. The marshrutka from Gavar to Noratus costs approximately 300-500 AMD.
Taxi

A taxi from Yerevan to Noratus Cemetery is a direct but more expensive option. Using a taxi app like GG Taxi or Yandex Taxi, the fare should be around 20,000-22,000 AMD for a round trip, including waiting time. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 18 minutes. Alternatively, take a taxi from Sevan to Noratus, which costs approximately $12-$35.
Car

Driving from Yerevan to Noratus Cemetery takes about 1.5 to 2 hours. Take the M4 highway towards Sevan and Gavar. After passing Sevan, turn right onto the H30 towards Gavar, then continue to Noratus. Follow the signs to the cemetery, which is located just off the main road. Parking is available near the cemetery.

Discover more about Noratus Cemetery

Noratus Cemetery, located near the village of Noratus and the shores of Lake Sevan, is a mesmerizing historical site and the largest surviving cemetery with khachkars in Armenia. These unique carved memorial stones are an integral part of Armenian cultural heritage. After the destruction of the Jugha cemetery in Nakhichevan, Azerbaijan, Noratus became the largest collection of khachkars, with nearly 900 cross-stones, each telling a story.The cemetery's origins trace back to the 10th century, with the majority of khachkars erected between the 13th and 17th centuries. The intricate carvings display a range of religious motifs, scenes from daily life, and inscriptions, providing insights into the lives and beliefs of early Armenians. Some tombstones even depict weddings and farm life. Three master carvers, Kiram Kazmogh, Arakel, and Meliset, created many khachkars during the 16th and 17th centuries.Legend says that during Tamerlane's invasion, villagers dressed the khachkars in helmets and swords to create the illusion of a large army, deterring the invaders. The cemetery also features two chapels, one dating back to 1211 and the other to 1714, adding to the site's historical and architectural significance. Wandering through this 'khachkar-forest' offers a poignant journey through time, connecting visitors with Armenia's rich past.