Khorakert, Medieval monastery on Lalvar Mountain slope in Jiliza, Armenia.
Khorakert is a monastery on a mountainside in Jiliza, Armenia, featuring a main temple with a rectangular exterior and cross-shaped interior. Small columns support arched structures, with a ten-sided dome crowning the roof above.
The monastery was built in the mid-1200s, a date confirmed by inscriptions carved into the west walls. These markings from that era serve as records of when the structure was completed.
The church displays classic Armenian building elements such as sculpted reliefs and ornamental cornices that fill the space with crafted details. These decorative forms shape the interior appearance and make each visit a discovery of traditional stonework.
The monastery sits in a border region, so advance coordination with local authorities is necessary. Visitors should gather information beforehand before attempting to reach the site.
Inside, arches meet and form special openings at the cupola corners. These openings direct light in unexpected ways through the space, creating a distinctive visual feature.
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