Monastery of Surb Gevorg of Goms

Surb Gevorg Monastery is an Armenian monastic complex positioned on a ridge overlooking Lake Van. The fortified square compound features defensive towers positioned at two corners and displays the defensive architectural style typical of medieval Armenian religious communities.

The monastery was founded in 901 and became a significant religious center for the region. It was abandoned around 1915 due to regional conflict and has remained largely unoccupied since then.

The monks maintained a collection of Saint George relics, establishing the monastery as a principal destination for religious pilgrimages in medieval times.

Reaching the monastery requires climbing a steep path to the compound walls. Entry to the interior involves navigating through accumulated rubble and debris scattered throughout the site.

The church interior displays a distinctive two-part construction with white-plastered stone lower walls and precisely cut tufa blocks forming the upper sections. This mixed-material approach reflects traditional Armenian building practices that combined different techniques for structural and aesthetic purposes.

Location: Bitlis Province

Location: Tatvan

Inception: 10 century

Architectural style: Armenian architecture

GPS coordinates: 38.48188,42.63179

Latest update: December 14, 2025 15:01