Saghmosavank, Yerevan Travel Guide

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Discover Saghmosavank Monastery: A medieval Armenian treasure perched atop the Kasakh River gorge, offering history, stunning views, and spiritual serenity.

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, offering stunning views and a serene atmosphere.

A brief summary to Saghmosavank

99JW+6M8, Saghmosavan, 0211, AM

From Eve

Know before you go

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

Wear comfortable shoes for walking on uneven terrain and exploring the monastery complex.
Visit during the spring or fall for pleasant weather and optimal viewing of the surrounding landscape.
Take your time to explore the interior of the churches and appreciate the intricate stone carvings.
Bring a camera to capture the breathtaking views of the Kasakh River gorge and the monastery's unique architecture.
Combine your visit with nearby attractions like Hovhannavank Monastery and the Armenian Alphabet Monument for a fuller experience.

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Getting There

Taxi

From Yerevan, a taxi is a direct way to reach Saghmosavank. The ride is approximately 33 km and typically takes around 33 minutes. A taxi from Yerevan to Saghmosavank usually costs between $10 and $13.
Public Transport

To reach Saghmosavank via 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 fare is around AMD 600-800, and the taxi from Nor Hachn to Saghmosavank costs approximately AMD 2,000-3,000. The total journey takes about 1 hour and 10 minutes and costs $12–$15.
Driving

Driving from Yerevan to Saghmosavank is straightforward. Head north on the M1 highway. The distance is about 33 km, and the drive takes approximately 33 minutes. Parking is available near the monastery. Note that road conditions can vary, so drive carefully.

Discover more about Saghmosavank

Saghmosavank Monastery, meaning "Monastery of Psalms," is a captivating 13th-century Armenian monastic complex located in the village of Saghmosavan, in the Aragatsotn Province. Situated on the precipitous edge of the Kasakh River gorge, the monastery's location enhances its beauty and comeliness, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. According to legend, the monastery's origins trace back to the 4th century when St. Gregory the Illuminator founded a church on this site. He taught psalms to clergymen, hence the name Saghmosavank. However, historical records only mention it 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.The main church, Saint Zion, was built in 1215 by Prince Vache Vachutyan. It is a cross-domed structure with two-story annexes in all corners, a unique example of Armenian architecture. The gavit was constructed in the first quarter of the 13th century. In 1255, Prince Kurd Vachutyan and his wife built the Saint Astvatsatsin church-library to commemorate their daughter. This library served as a repository for valuable manuscripts and church utensils.Saghmosavank was a prominent spiritual, cultural, and educational center in medieval Armenia. A higher school operated here from the 13th century. The monastery was renowned for its rich collection of manuscripts, with many written, copied, and illustrated within its walls. Although the monastery has suffered damage over the centuries, including a devastating earthquake in 1988, it has been consistently restored, allowing visitors to appreciate its exquisite luxury and mystery. Today, Saghmosavank stands as a testament to Armenia's rich religious, cultural, and architectural heritage.