Discover Religious Sites in Armenia

Why Visit Churches and Monasteries in Armenia?

Are you ready to admire the jewels of Armenian religious architecture smoothly blended into the magnificent natural and urban landscapes?

As the first Christian nation, Armenians gave religious structures a lot of thought and perfected the skill of building churches, mastering everything from placement to topography, ornament, and decoration.

Because of this, Armenia is filled with intriguing churches and monasteries that can be found anywhere, whether at the top of a hill, in the middle of a city, tucked away in a forest, or hidden in a small village. Each of these religious sites has unique characters that date back centuries and convey ancient wisdom and belief to the visitors and pilgrims up to this day. In addition, each monastery and church reflect the peculiarities of its region, the architectural school, and the cultural elements of that particular area.

Monasteries as Learning Centers

You can see ruins of medieval universities and schools when visiting Armenian churches and monasteries. From 11th to 14th centuries, monasteries served primarily as educational institutions where students learned history, philosophy, math, miniature painting, and more.

The most significant examples are the monasteries in Haghpat, Sanahin, Noravank, and Tatev.

Armenian Church Architecture: Origins to Present

Church architecture evolved so naturally that touring a single monastery complex occasionally allows visitors to see the whole architectural development at once.

Moreover, Armenians preserved the art of building churches and monasteries over the ages and advanced this cultural tradition to new heights.

So, Armenia is great to marvel at and be fascinated by the magnificent architectural designs of Armenian churches and monasteries. Local religious structures have undergone centuries of evolution. According to historical documents and preserved unique examples, the earliest Christian churches were simple hall-type structures with flat roofs. While in the latter centuries, the monastic complexes were more well-developed and included several churches and other structures.

Take a trip to Noravank Monastery and be amazed at the exquisite ornaments, sculptures, and decorations of these monasteries that are preserved to this day. You will notice that the designs of later churches, such as Hayravank and Sevanavank, are much more advanced in their construction, showcasing the architectural boom that enlighted Armenia in the seventh century.

Must-see Churches and Monasteries in Armenia

Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin

Discover the history of the first Christian nation and church while exploring Etchmiadzin's architectural marvels, religious frescoes, decorations, and holy relics kept in the Treasury Museum.

Geghard Monastery

Geghard is a true architectural gem. Founded in the 4th century, it acquired its present appearance in the 13th century.

Tatev Monastery

Tatev monastery is one of Armenia's most impressive religious monuments because of its unique location.

The Monasteries of Haghpat and Sanahin

Sanahin and Haghpat monasteries feature a range of sacred and secular structures, one-of-a-kind cross-stone carving specimens, and captivating views of the Lori region’s landscapes.

Noravank Monastery

Noravank was one of medieval Armenia's most important religious, cultural, and educational centers. Like any other sacred site built in Medieval times, the monks at Noravank Monastery copied religious

Khor Virap Monastery

Khor Virap Monastery is a perfect option for a short but insightful trip that is easily doable within two hours from Yerevan.

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Discover Religious Sites in Armenia

Why Visit Churches and Monasteries in Armenia?