Sevanavank, Medieval monastery at Lake Sevan, Armenia
Sevanavank Monastery includes two stone churches located on a peninsula that extends into the northern shores of Lake Sevan at 1900 meters elevation.
Founded in 305 by Gregory the Illuminator, the monastery expanded in 874 when Princess Mariam Bagratuni established two additional churches on the former island.
The monastery features traditional Armenian religious architecture with cruciform floor plans, detailed stone carvings, and ornate wooden column capitals now displayed in national museums.
Visitors need to climb 200 stone steps to reach the monastery complex, which remains an active religious site under the Armenian Apostolic Church administration.
The monastery walls contain medieval inscriptions from 874 CE that detail construction records and document historical events of the Bagratuni royal dynasty period.
Location: Sevan
Location: Gegharkunik Province
Inception: 3 century
Founders: Mariam Bagratuni
Architectural style: Armenian architecture
GPS coordinates: 40.56392,45.01081
Latest update: May 10, 2025 22:08
Armenia's historical and natural sites showcase a rich heritage. Medieval monasteries like Tatev and Geghard overlook mountain valleys. Ancient temples include Garni and the cathedral of Echmiadzin. The country has high-altitude fortresses, prehistoric caves, and notable geological formations such as the Debed Canyon. Lake Sevan and national parks complement this region between mountains and valleys, marked by religious history and traditional architecture.
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