Shativank, Vayots Dzor Travel Guide

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Discover Shativank Monastery: A historic Armenian spiritual center with stunning architecture and serene landscapes in Vayots Dzor.

Shativank Monastery, founded in 929 AD, is a striking Armenian church located near Shatin village in the Vayots Dzor region. The three-nave basilica of Saint Sion, rebuilt in 1665, is the only standing structure of the complex today, representing a rich heritage and resilience.

A brief summary to Shativank

R8RG+M6F, Shatin, AM

From Eve

Know before you go

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

Visit during early morning or late afternoon for a quieter experience and optimal lighting for photography.
Dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees, as it is a place of worship.
Take time to explore the surrounding area for a peaceful atmosphere and scenic views.

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Getting There

Public Transport

From Yeghegnadzor, take a minibus (marshrutka) towards Shatin village. The marshrutkas depart regularly from the bus station in Yeghegnadzor. The fare is typically around 500 AMD. Once you reach Shatin village, you can walk approximately 1 kilometer to the church.
Walking

If you are already in Shatin village, walk towards the eastern part of the village. Follow the dirt path that leads to Shativank, located on a small hill. The walk is approximately 3km and takes around 45 minutes.
Car

From Yeghegnadzor, head southeast on the M10 highway. After approximately 15 kilometers, you will see a sign for Shatin. Turn left onto the road leading to Shatin village. Continue driving for about 5 kilometers, and you will arrive at the entrance to the village. Follow the signs to Shativank, which is located just outside the village center. Parking may be available near the church.

Discover more about Shativank

Nestled 4 km east of Shatin village, the historic Shativank Monastery stands as a testament to Armenian faith and architectural prowess. Founded in 929 AD by Prince Smbat, Sahak, and Lady Sophia of Syunik, the monastery was once a vibrant spiritual and cultural center. Today, the main church, the three-nave basilica of Saint Sion, remains the most prominent structure, having been rebuilt in 1665.Shativank's history is rich with monastic life. In its prime, it housed a large community of monks, estimated between 70 and 90 individuals. The monastery also functioned as a hub of learning, with a school, library, and scriptorium within its walls. The grounds were once enclosed by imposing defensive walls, featuring semi-circular pyramids to bolster its defenses.Exploration of the site reveals remnants of its self-sufficient past. Ruins of a dining room, residential chambers, sheds, a spring, a water mill, and wheat barns hint at the daily lives of the monks who once resided here. A sophisticated water system, using clay pipes to transport water from 3 km away, showcases the ingenuity of the monastery's inhabitants.While time has weathered parts of the complex, the enduring Saint Sion Church displays remarkable features. Frescoes adorn the walls of the senior altar, with inscriptions in black Armenian letters depicting scenes such as "Foot Washing," "Vernatoun," and "Stone Throwing". The monastery's location on a hill in a gorge offers stunning views, adding to the serene and spiritual atmosphere.