Kecharis Monastery

Foundation: 11 - 13th century

Location: Tsaghkazdzor, Kotayk Province

Distance from Yerevan:  60 km / 1 hour

Kecharis Monastery used to be an important religious and scientific center of medieval Armenia. It was founded by a Pahlavuni prince in the 11th century, the construction continued until the 13th century.

The complex:

  • St. Grigor Church is the main church (domed hall type)  and the first structure founded by Grigor Magistros Pahlavuni in 1013;
  • Gavit of St. Grigor church was built in the second half of the 12th century;
  • St. Nshan Church (Holy Sign of Cross) is a small domed church with cross-wings, most probably built 11th century;
  • Katoghike Church (13th century) is situated south of S. Nshan;
  • Chapels of Saint Grigor (11th century);
  • Khatchkars or cross-stones dating to the 12th-13th centuries;
  • Tombstones;
  • St. Harutyun Church (Holy Resurrection) stands away from the main group, was built in 1220.

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.

© 2021. Powered by Adventures.am