Zorats Church

Region

Vayots Dzor

Distance from Yerevan

140.6 km

Type

Monastery/Church

Zorats church is located on a high hill of Yeghegis Village in Vayots Dzor Province. It was erected on the initiative of the grandson of the Armenian prince Tarsaich Orbelian. The church was built in 1303.The structure has a unique architectural design, not typical for traditional Armenian churches. A significant difference of the building is the altar located at the level of the rider sitting in the saddle. Due to this idea soldiers could ride on horseback close to the altar and get blessing before the battle. There are several roughly hewn large stones on the territory in front of the church, each of which has a round hole. There is no information on their exact purpose. Zorats church has been reconstructed and archaeological excavations are still being carried out in this place.

Interesting

facts about Zorats Church

Facts

There is no inner hall inside the church. It consists of an altar and two sacristies. The altar is higher than in other churches. Zorats church served for the soldiers, going to war. Before going to war, the army was blessed here.

There are several tombstones in front of the church, each with holes at the end. It is unclear why these holes were made, but according to some scientists, these stones are much older than the church. It is also assumed that there was a place of worship before.

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 Zorats Church depends on the weather conditions.

Sights

near Zorats Church

JEWISH CEMETERY IN YEGHEGIS

1 km

ARATES MONASTERY

11 km

Smbataberd Fortress

13 km

Smbataberd Fortress

13 km

Zorats Church on the map on Armenia