Amaras Monastery: A Beacon of Armenian Faith and Learning

Nestled in the valley between the Khazaz and Lusavorich mountains, near the village of Sos, the Amaras Monastery stands as a testament to Armenian faith and learning. Founded in the early 4th century by St. Gregory the Illuminator, the monastery holds a special place in Armenian history. It is believed that St. Grigoris, grandson of St. Gregory, completed the construction. Amaras is historically significant as the location where Mesrop Mashtots, creator of the Armenian alphabet, established the first school in Artsakh in the 5th century to spread literacy using his new script. For centuries, Amaras served as a major ecclesiastical center. The monastery complex has faced numerous destructions and restorations throughout its history, reflecting the resilience of the Armenian people. The present-day church, dedicated to St. Grigoris, was rebuilt in 1858 using white sandstone. Underneath the altar lies the tomb of St. Grigoris, a site of pilgrimage and architectural interest. The monastery complex is surrounded by high defensive walls with towers, reflecting its history as both a religious and strategic site. In the 19th century, it even served as a Russian imperial fortress and customs house. After periods of neglect, Amaras was re-consecrated in 1992 and continues to be a significant religious and cultural center, attracting pilgrims and tourists.