Khtzkonk Monastery

The monastery complex stretches across three narrow promontories above steep canyon walls, incorporating multiple churches and monastic buildings into the landscape.

Founded in 601, the monastery contained five Armenian churches until 1950, when four structures were destroyed, leaving only Saint Sargis Church standing.

The remaining church displays traditional Armenian architectural elements through its stone masonry, dome construction, and religious carvings on the exterior walls.

Access to the monastery requires a trek from Digor village through a river canyon, with visitors needing to carry identification due to border proximity.

The surviving church walls show evidence of deliberate destruction through military explosives, contradicting natural deterioration explanations provided by local authorities.

Location: Kars Province

Inception: 7 century

Architectural style: Armenian architecture

GPS coordinates: 40.38056,43.37639

Latest update: March 9, 2025 21:10