Yeghegis Monastery Complex

Foundation: 14th century

Location: Vayots Dzor Province

Distance from Yerevan:  140km / 2.5 hours

Medieval Yeghegis was one of the richest cities in Armenia and seat of the Orbelian (Proshian) family in the 13-14th centuries. The Complex is consisted of several Khachkars, grave stones, and churches. 

A moderate hiking trail will take you to Smbataberd Fortress (5th c.) and TsakhatsKar Monastery (10th century). 

The complex:

  • Khachkars on entrance of the village (12th-13th centuries)
  • Orbelian’s Graves
  • Jewish Cemetery, which used to belong to the Jewish community living in Yeghegis in the 13-14th centuries
  • St. Astvatsatsin, a triple-nave basilica rebuilt in 1703
  • St. Karapet, 13th century well preserved domed cruciform church, many khachkars can be found nearby.
  • Zorats Church (Soldier Church) was built in 1303 by Archbishop Stepanos Orbelian. According to recent excavations an old worship site has been found. Zorats church is unique in its type in Armenia: there is no inner hall, the only roofed spaces are the altar that is raised more than usual and the annexes. The church was built for warriors to receive the blessing while sitting on their horses before going to battle. The church was renovated in the 20th century and excavations of the area are still in process.

Leave No Trace

  • Plan ahead & be prepared
  • Dispose the waste properly
  • Leave what you find
  • Minimize campfire impacts
  • Respect the wildlife
  • Be considerate of other visitors

Roads conditions

It is winter time! Check out road conditions before heading to the road! Beware of the snow & ice layer!

Vanadzor - Alaverdi section of the M6 Interstate highway stretching from Yerevan to Georgian border is temporarily closed. You can use Vanadzor-Stepanavan-Odzun-Alaverdi bypassing road.

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