Gavazan in Tatev, Medieval monument in Tatev, Armenia
The Gavazan is an octagonal stone tower about 8 meters (26 feet) tall standing in the courtyard of Tatev Monastery, topped with an ornate khachkar cross. The entire structure is engineered to sway and move in response to ground shifts and seismic activity.
Built between 904 and 905, this tower served as an early warning system for earthquakes and approaching armies during medieval times. Its engineering demonstrates how medieval builders understood and responded to seismic forces through thoughtful design.
The name Gavazan comes from the Armenian word for 'staff', describing how this stone structure gently moves while remaining firmly planted. Visitors can observe this swaying motion during windy conditions or minor tremors, giving the monument a living quality.
The monument can be viewed from the central courtyard of the monastery and is accessible from all sides. Visitors should note that ground around the tower can be uneven, so sturdy footwear is recommended.
During the 1931 earthquake that destroyed other structures at the monastery, this tower remained completely undamaged. This proved that the thousand-year-old design genuinely worked against seismic forces.
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