Makravank Monastery
Kotayk'
Makravank Monastery is an Armenian ecclesiastical complex located in the Makravan district of Hrazdan city, Kotayk Province, Armenia. The complex features a 13th-century church dedicated to Surb Astvatsatsin (Holy Mother of God), notable for its circular tambour and conical dome supported by a single central drum. The church's architecture includes narrow windows with bell-shaped arches oriented towards the cardinal points, decorated with Bolnisi style crosses. Adjacent to the main church is a half-ruined 11th-century chapel known as the Holy Redeemer chapel, characterized by a simple gable roof and small narrow windows. The monastery grounds also include the lower walls of a gavit, which now form a courtyard wall, and a medieval cemetery containing several intricately carved khachkars and tombstones, some depicting musicians. The altar inside the main church is made of wood and painted in multiple colors, adding to the site's cultural richness. This combination of architectural elements and historical artifacts makes Makravank Monastery a unique example of Armenian religious heritage.
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Tip: Visitors should consider timing their visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the architectural details and khachkars in the cemetery. Purchasing tickets in advance is recommended when available, and visitors may inquire locally about any available discounts for students or groups. Comfortable walking shoes are advisable due to the uneven terrain around the medieval cemetery and monastery grounds.
Interesting facts
- •The monastery features Bolnisi style crosses, an early Armenian cross design, on its windows and tympanum.
- •The wooden altar inside the main church is painted in multiple hues including reds, greens, and blues, which is rare for Armenian churches.
- •The adjacent medieval cemetery contains khachkars and tombstones, some depicting musicians, highlighting the cultural aspects of medieval Armenian life.
History
Makravank Monastery's origins trace back to the 10th and 11th centuries with the construction of the Holy Redeemer chapel.
The main church of Surb Astvatsatsin was built in the 13th century, showcasing the evolution of Armenian ecclesiastical architecture.
Over the centuries, the monastery has seen partial ruin, particularly the chapel, while the main church remains largely intact.
The medieval cemetery developed alongside the monastic complex, preserving khachkars and tombstones that reflect the cultural and spiritual traditions of the region.
The site has retained its religious significance and remains a testament to medieval Armenian craftsmanship and faith.
Place Guide
Surb Astvatsatsin Church13th century
The main 13th-century church dedicated to the Holy Mother of God, featuring a circular tambour and conical dome supported by a single central drum. It has narrow bell-arched windows decorated with Bolnisi crosses and a colorful wooden altar inside.
Holy Redeemer Chapel10th-11th century
A half-ruined 10th/11th-century chapel adjacent to the main church, with a simple gable roof and two small narrow windows. It has a semi-circular tympanum above the door and is flanked by two large khachkars.
Monastery Gavit Walls
The lower walls of the monastery's gavit, now serving as a courtyard wall, located west of Surb Astvatsatsin and near the chapel.
Medieval CemeteryMedieval period
Located east of the church complex, the cemetery contains several khachkars and tombstones, including unique depictions such as musicians carved in stone.
