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Tegher Monastery: A Fortress of Faith and History

Discover the serene beauty and historical significance of Tegher Monastery, a 13th-century Armenian architectural gem nestled in the Ararat Valley.

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Nestled on the slopes of Mount Aragats, Tegher Monastery is a striking 13th-century Armenian monastic complex built from dark gray basalt. Founded by Princess Mamakhatun, the monastery stands as a testament to medieval Armenian architecture and offers panoramic views of the Ararat Valley.

A brief summary to Tegher Monastery

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning to experience the monastery's tranquility and avoid crowds.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be walking on uneven surfaces and exploring the surrounding trails.
  • Dress modestly to respect the local customs when visiting the monastery.
  • Take time to explore the ruins of Old Tegher, a 9th-century village near the monastery.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Yerevan, take a bus from Kilikia bus station to Vagharshapat (Ejmiatsin). Buses 202 or 203 are suitable. From Vagharshapat, take a taxi to Tegher Monastery. The bus fare is approximately 300 AMD ($0.80 USD), and the taxi fare from Vagharshapat to Tegher Monastery is estimated to cost between $9 and $14 USD.

  • Taxi

    From Yerevan, a taxi directly to Tegher Monastery is the fastest option. The journey is approximately 39 km and takes around 42 minutes. Expect to pay between $12 and $15 USD for the taxi ride.

  • Car

    From Yerevan, follow the main road to Vagharshapat (Ejmiatsin). Continue northwest and turn onto Avan Road. Follow Avan Road for approximately 5 km until you reach Tegher Monastery. Parking is available near the monastery.

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Discover more about Tegher Monastery

Tegher Monastery, also known as Tegheri Vank, is a captivating monastic complex dating back to the early 13th century. Located on the southeastern slopes of Mount Aragats, near the village of Tegher in the Aragatsotn Province of Armenia, the monastery offers a serene escape into history and spirituality. The monastery was commissioned by Princess Mamakhatun, the wife of Prince Vache I Vachutian, who acquired the Aragatzotn district. The skilled architect Vardapet Aghbayrik, also responsible for the monasteries of Saghmosavank and Hovhannavank, designed Tegher. Construction began in 1213, with the main church, Surb Astvatsatsin (Holy Mother of God), completed in 1232. Built from dark gray basalt, the monastery exudes a sense of austere beauty. The church features a rectangular, domed structure with cross-shaped, two-story carvings in each corner. Unlike many Armenian churches, Tegher lacks elaborate decorations, enhancing its solemn atmosphere. A unique architectural element is the large narthex (gavit), which is bigger than the church itself. The narthex has small domed chapels in the northeast and northwest corners, an unusual feature that, combined with the main church, creates a three-domed silhouette. Princess Mamakhatun is buried within the narthex. In ancient times, the village of Tegher was known as Degher, named for the medicinal herbs that grew in the area. A building near the monastery served as a hospital (Dghratun) where Armenian soldiers were treated. The monastery complex was once enclosed by fortress walls for defensive purposes. Although damaged by an earthquake in 1949, the monastery has been restored and is now under the care of the Armenian Apostolic Church. Today, Tegher Monastery continues to function as a place of worship, with regular services, baptisms, and wedding ceremonies.

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