Yerits Mankants Monastery

Yerits Mankants Monastery sits on a forested mountain slope near the Trghi River, its white stone walls rising above the surrounding forest. The complex includes residential buildings with fireplaces, windows, and storage rooms that served the monks' daily needs.

Construction began in 1691 under Shah Suleiman I, funded by Catholicos Simeon and his brother Ignatios to offer a new center for monastic life. It developed as an alternative to the more distant Gandzasar monastery.

The monastery displays Armenian architectural traditions through its three-nave basilica topped by a dome, with khachkars positioned around the complex as spiritual markers.

The site sits on a mountain slope accessed through forested terrain, so visitors should prepare for walking on uneven ground. Conditions vary by season, with forest paths requiring appropriate footwear.

During the war in 1992, the monastery sheltered around 2,000 local residents fleeing nearby conflicts, becoming a critical refuge for the community. This wartime role remains part of the site's recent memory.

Location: Tartar District

Location: Martakert Province

Location: Kalbajar District

Inception: 1691

Architectural style: Armenian architecture

GPS coordinates: 40.25222,46.64056

Latest update: December 12, 2025 14:23