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Akhtala Monastery

Region

Lori

Distance from Yerevan

179.5 km

Type

Monastery/Church

Akhtala is a 10th-century Armenian Apostolic monastery. The monastic complex impresses with the beauty and uniqueness of the frescoes that decorate the walls. The underground tunnels, the magnificent defensive fortress, the numerous admirable khachkars and the two-story building, which is believed to be a residence for guards, capture attention. The architecture of the church is an interesting combination of the Armenian and Georgian styles, which is particularly visible in the exterior. Stunning sceneries make this place even more beautiful.

Interesting

facts about Akhtala Monastery

Facts

Between 1887 and 1889 the French archaeologist Jacques de Morgan discovered 576 rectangular stone sepulchers, along with cultural items made of clay, bronze and iron near Akhtala dating back to the 8th century BC.

The beautiful frescoes are preservedon the walls of the church Surb Astvatsatsin (Holy Mother of God), only the Holy Mother's face was damaged during Tamerlane's invasion.

According to the historian Stepanos Orbelian, a valuable artifact - the Holy Cross,was kept here. According to a legend, St. John the Baptist performed the baptism of Jesus Christ using this particular cross. Later the Holy Cross was handed for storage at Noravank Monastery.

Weather in Lori

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 Akhtala depends on the weather conditions.

Sights

near Akhtala Monastery

Haghpat Monastery

14 km

Sanahin Monastery

24 km

Odzun Monastery

29 km

Horomayr monastery

31 km

Akhtala Monastery on the map on Armenia