St. Hovhannes chapel, Hartagyugh, Chapel in Hartagyugh, Armenia
St. Hovhannes is a chapel in Hartagyugh, a mountain village in the Armenian highlands, built with dressed stone and carvings. The interior spaces are plain and small, with an entrance to the south side and narrow windows that let in soft light.
The chapel was built in the medieval period by villagers who followed rural life in the highlands. Several restorations over the centuries have strengthened the structure and renewed the roof.
The name recalls John the Baptist, a central figure in Armenian Orthodox faith. Local people light candles here and use the space for prayers, especially on commemorative days.
A narrow track leads from Hartagyugh to the open ground in front of the building, where you can park a car. It is best to visit the chapel in daylight and wear sturdy shoes because of the rocky surroundings.
Small stones are set into the floor near the altar, serving as steps for children who took part in services. Even today, you occasionally see families arriving with children, keeping the old tradition alive.
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