NORAVANK (Նորավանք)

Our last stop today was one of the most spectacular sites in Armenia, the Noravank Monastery. It was founded by Bishop Hovhannes in 1205 and sensitively renovated in the 1990s. We arrived right time at sunset, the reddish hues of the dramatic cliffs surrounding the monastery were accentuated by the setting sun, and the reddish-gold stone of its churches acquired a luminous sheen – it’s a magnificent sight. The complex includes the 13th-century Surp Karapet Church, built next to the ruins of an earlier church dedicated to St John the Baptist. Attached to this is a small 13th-century chapel dedicated to Surp Gregor. The main structure is the 14th-century Surp Astvatsatsin Church (1339), built on top of the mausoleum of Burtel Orbelian, who was buried here with his family.

Parking location – Noravank: 39.684165N 45.233699E (🚻-100 AMD)