Tejharuyk Monastery, Medieval monastery in Meghradzor, Armenia
Tejharuyk Monastery is a medieval monastery on a wooded hill near Meghradzor, surrounded by low stone walls. It features a basilica with a main hall, gavit, side chapel, and portico entrance arranged in a traditional layout.
The monastery was built between 1196 and 1199 under the direction of Ivane I Zakarian, a commander from the Zakarian-Mkhargrzeli family. This construction period occurred when Armenian and Georgian rulers were closely allied.
The monastery was commissioned by Ivane I Zakarian, a convert to the Georgian Orthodox Church, which explains the Georgian inscriptions in large script around the basilica walls, especially below the eaves. Inside, each of the six column capitals carries a different high-relief design; one shows a domed church, a cross on a stepped plinth, and a figure in a long tunic with arms raised.
The monastery is located on a hill and can be reached via the H28 road near Meghradzor village. The approach to the site is straightforward and the surroundings offer views across the region's rolling landscape.
The gavit chamber displays reliefs of grapes and vines carved around the portal frame, an uncommon decorative choice. The space also served as a burial site for Prince Bubak, combining religious and family functions.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 92,654 contributors worldwide.