Varagavank, Medieval monastery ruins near Van, Turkey
Varagavank is a monastery complex situated on the slopes of Mount Erek near Van. The ruins show multiple churches built in the traditional Armenian architectural style with stone construction.
The monastery was established in 653 and grew into a major religious center for the Armenian community. It was destroyed during conflicts in 1915, marking a significant loss.
The monastery drew pilgrims from across the Armenian world because of its sacred standing and religious importance. Visitors today can sense this past significance when walking among the remaining structures.
The site is located roughly 9 kilometers southeast of Van and can be reached by foot or vehicle. Visiting is easiest during milder months when weather conditions are more favorable for walking around.
The monastery held a relic of the True Cross that had been preserved there since ancient times. This sacred object made the site a distinctive destination for devoted pilgrims traveling from far away.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
