ARATES MONASTERY

Region

Vayots Dzor

Distance from Yerevan

150.2 km

Type

Monastery/Church

The monastic complex, built in the Middle Ages, has an interesting name. According to the popular legend, the name of this unique monastery came from the combination of “ari” (come) and “tes” (see). The monastery consists of three partially ruined churches and a narthex. Visitors can also see khachkars of the 12th century and five small tombs of the 7th century on the territory of Arates Monastery. The monastery buildings were repeatedly updated and restored in the Middle Ages. Arates Monastery was the summer residence for the metropolitans of Syunik. Ancient manuscripts and manuscripts were also copied here.

Interesting

facts about ARATES MONASTERY

Facts

Archbishop Stepanos Orbelian handed Arates monastery to Noravank monastery at the end of the 13th century as a summer residence for high rank priests. He also donated to the monastery eight villages of Gegharkunik province in 1301.

The monastery of Arates was surrounded by a fortress, wich was destroyed in the XVII century. A part of the northern wall has been preserved. The monastery complex also includes churches St. Astvatsatsin (Holy Virgin) (X-XI centuries), St. Karapet (XI-XII centuries), 5 tombs (VII century) and 12th century khachkars.

Weather in Vayots Dzor

The high season in Armenia lasts for a long time due to the pleasant climate conditions. Warm days in Armenia start in March and last until late autumn; winter is usually snowless and not long. The high precipitation season is variable. The tourist season for Arates depends on the weather conditions.

Sights

near ARATES MONASTERY

JEWISH CEMETERY IN YEGHEGIS

10 km

Zorats Church

11 km

Smbataberd Fortress

22 km

Smbataberd Fortress

22 km

ARATES MONASTERY on the map on Armenia