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Sights of Armenia Vayots Dzor

Areni Holy Mother of God Church

  • RegionVayots Dzor
  • Distance from Yerevan111 km
  • TypeMonastery/Church

Vayots Dzor

About this place

"Anyone even slightly familiar with Armenian architecture will immediately recognize the signature of the brilliant architect Momik in the structure of this church. The church was built in 1321. One of the innovative architectural solutions for its time is the fact that the dome rests on paired piers and columns—an uncommon practice at the time. The church has two entrances, the main one adorned with a valuable high-relief sculpture depicting the Virgin Mary holding the infant Jesus."

Interesting

facts about Areni Holy Mother of God Church

  1. The pendentives supporting the dome are carved with the symbols of the four Evangelists.

  2. A large number of khachkars (cross-stones) and historically significant tombstones are located near the church.

  3. The monastery offers a view of the Arpa River, specifically the section where a scene from the film ""What's all the noise of the river about?"" was filmed."

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 Areni St Astvatsatsin depends on the weather conditions.

Areni Holy Mother of God Church

FAQ

When was the Holy Mother of God Church in Areni built?

The church was built in 1321. Anyone even slightly familiar with Armenian architecture will recognize in its structure the signature of the brilliant architect Momik.

What is unusual about the church’s architecture?

Its dome rests on paired piers and columns, an innovative solution that was uncommon at the time. The pendentives supporting the dome are carved with the symbols of the four Evangelists.

What can you see at and around the church?

The church has two entrances, and the main one is adorned with a valuable high-relief of the Virgin Mary holding the infant Jesus. A large number of khachkars (cross-stones) and historically significant tombstones stand near the church.

What view is there from the church?

The site overlooks the Arpa River, at the very section where a scene from the film “What’s all the noise of the river about?” was filmed.

Vayots Dzor

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Address

Holy Mother of God Church, Areni, Vayots Dzor Province, Armenia

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