Geghard Monastery
Kotayk'
Geghard Monastery, located in Armenia's Kotayk province, is a remarkable medieval complex partially carved into the adjacent mountain cliffs. Founded in the 4th century by Gregory the Illuminator around a sacred spring inside a cave, it was originally called Ayrivank, meaning "Monastery of the Cave." The main chapel dates back to 1215, built under the patronage of Zakarid generals Zakare and Ivane. The complex includes churches hewn directly from rock, elaborate structures, and numerous intricately carved khachkars (cross-stones). Geghard is renowned for housing the spear that wounded Jesus at the Crucifixion, brought by Apostle Thaddeus, which gave the monastery its modern name meaning "Monastery of the Spear." The surrounding cliffs form part of the Azat River gorge, adding breathtaking natural scenery. Over centuries, the monastery suffered destruction from Arab invasions and earthquakes but was rebuilt and expanded by Armenian nobility such as the Proshians in the 13th century. Today, Geghard remains a significant pilgrimage site and one of Armenia's most visited cultural landmarks, admired for its fusion of natural and architectural beauty.
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Tip: Visitors are advised to visit Geghard Monastery in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy softer natural light for photography. Purchasing combined tickets with the nearby Temple of Garni is common and convenient. Advance ticket reservations are recommended during peak tourist seasons. Modest clothing is advised as the monastery is an active religious site. Comfortable footwear is recommended due to uneven terrain and cave interiors.
Interesting facts
- •The name 'Geghard' means 'Spear' in Armenian, referring to the spear that wounded Jesus, which was kept at the monastery.
- •Some churches within the complex are entirely carved from the adjacent cliffs, making it a unique example of rock-cut architecture.
- •The monastery is surrounded by towering cliffs forming the Azat River gorge, a protected natural landscape.
- •Geghard was once known as the Monastery of the Seven Churches and the Monastery of the Forty Altars due to its many chapels and altars.
- •The monastery houses numerous khachkars, Armenian carved cross-stones, which are significant examples of medieval Armenian art.
History
Geghard Monastery was founded in the 4th century by Gregory the Illuminator at a sacred cave spring, originally named Ayrivank.
The original structures were destroyed by Arab invasions in the 9th century, with significant plundering and damage in 923.
The main church was rebuilt in 1215 under the Zakarid princes during the Georgian-Armenian revival.
The 13th century saw expansions by the Proshian family, adding cave chapels and irrigation systems.
The monastery declined after invasions and earthquakes, becoming defunct until monks resettled it post-Russian conquest.
Its fame derives largely from the relic of the Holy Spear, making it a major pilgrimage site through centuries.
Place Guide
Main Chapel1215
Built in 1215, this is the central church of the monastery complex, featuring traditional Armenian ecclesiastical architecture and intricate stone carvings.
Rock-cut Churches and CavesMid-13th century
Several churches and chapels are fully hewn from the surrounding cliffs, including cave cells used for worship and monastic living, showcasing unique medieval rock architecture.
Gavit (Narthex)Before 1225
A partly free-standing and partly rock-cut entrance hall built before 1225, used for gatherings, teaching, and sheltering pilgrims.
Contact
Phone: 095 371367
