Horomos, Medieval monastic complex in Kars Province, Turkey
Horomos is an Armenian monastery in Kars Province built across multiple levels of mountainous terrain, containing churches, chapels, and burial structures. The buildings display the craftsmanship of Armenian builders through carved stonework and architectural details that have remained visible across the centuries.
Armenian monks founded the monastery in the 930s under King Abas I Bagratuni and established it as a center of religious life. The complex saw continuous use and development over several centuries before eventually losing its active function.
The monastery served as a manuscript production center, creating important works such as the Haghpat Gospel in 1211.
The site has partially deteriorated areas and requires careful exploration with sturdy footwear and attention to uneven paths. It is advisable to arrange necessary permissions in advance and plan the visit from nearby Ani.
The monastery was known for manuscript production, with scholars and artisans working together to create decorated religious texts. These handwritten works played an important role in preserving Armenian knowledge and spiritual traditions.
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