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Spitakavor Monastery: A White Jewel in Vayots Dzor

Discover the serene beauty and historical significance of Spitakavor Monastery, a 14th-century Armenian architectural gem in Vayots Dzor.

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Nestled in the Vayots Dzor province of Armenia, near Vernashen village, Spitakavor Monastery, also known as Spitakavor Holy Mother of God, is a stunning 14th-century Armenian monastic complex built with white felsite stone. The monastery offers a serene escape with breathtaking views and a glimpse into Armenia's rich religious and architectural heritage.

A brief summary to Spitakavor

  • R9H7+WFJ, Vernashen, AM
  • Thursday 3:13 pm-5:13 pm
  • Saturday 3:13 pm-5:13 pm
  • Sunday 3:13 pm-5:13 pm

Local tips

  • The road to Spitakavor Monastery can be rough; a 4x4 vehicle is recommended.
  • Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for the best lighting for photography.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as the terrain around the church can be uneven.
  • Take time to explore the surrounding area for beautiful hiking trails and scenic views.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Yeghegnadzor, take the road towards Vernashen. Pass the Gladzor University Museum and turn left. At the end of the dirt road, turn left again, then right just before the first house. This road will lead you to Spitakavor Monastery. Be aware that the road is rough and a 4x4 vehicle is recommended. There is parking available near the church entrance.

  • Public Transport

    To reach Spitakavor Monastery via public transport, first take a bus or marshrutka from Yerevan to Yeghegnadzor. The journey takes approximately 2-3 hours and costs around 1500-3000 AMD. Upon arriving in Yeghegnadzor, you will need to find a taxi or a local marshrutka heading towards Vernashen. From Vernashen, the monastery is less accessible, and hiring a local taxi or arranging a hike may be necessary. A taxi from Yeghegnadzor to Vernashen and then to the monastery may cost around 3,000-5,000 AMD, depending on negotiation.

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Discover more about Spitakavor

Spitakavor Monastery, whose name translates to “White Monastery”, is a cultural and spiritual center located roughly 7 kilometers north of Vernashen village, in Armenia's Vayots Dzor Province. The monastery owes its existence to the Proshyan dynasty, with Prince Eachi initiating construction in the 14th century. After his death in 1318, his son Prince Amir Hasan II completed the church in 1321. The white felsite stone used to construct the monastery gives it a unique appearance and its name. The monastery complex includes the Church of the Holy Mother of God (Spitakavor Surp Astvatsatsin), a narthex (gavit), and a three-story bell tower. The church exemplifies Armenian medieval architecture, adorned with high relief sculptures depicting spiritual and secular themes. Inside, you'll find intricate carvings, including a tympanum carving of St. Mary with the Christ child. The bell tower, added in 1330 by Hovhannes Proshian and his wife Tadzna, stands attached to the western wall of the narthex. Spitakavor Monastery was once an important cultural, educational, and spiritual hub. After Gladzor University ceased operations, Spitakavor became the cultural center for the Proshyan lands, housing a calligraphy center in the 15th century. The monastery also holds the grave of Garegin Nzhdeh, a prominent Armenian military and political figure, whose remains were secretly buried here in 1987. Today, Spitakavor Monastery attracts tourists and pilgrims who seek to experience the natural beauty and spiritual essence of medieval Armenian monastic life.

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