Gandzasar monastery, Religious monastery in Kalbajar District, Azerbaijan.
Gandzasar monastery is a fortified complex in Martakert Province with a Cathedral of St. John the Baptist at its center. Residential buildings for monks and a bell tower complete the courtyard, which is surrounded by thick stone walls.
Prince Hasan Jalal founded the complex in the early 13th century as a religious center for the region. About two hundred years later, it became the seat of the Catholicosate of Albania, gaining ecclesiastical importance.
The name comes from the Armenian words for treasure and mountain, which refers to mineral wealth believed to exist nearby. Local tradition holds that pilgrims would visit during feast days to pray before the carved stone cross on the facade.
A winding mountain road leads to the complex, which sits about an hour's drive from Martakert. The courtyard is usually accessible, but it's wise to watch for slippery stones during rain.
A collection of medieval manuscripts is kept in the monastery rooms and documents liturgical texts from several centuries. The central dome relief shows a crucifixion scene with detailed figures chiseled into the stone.
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