St. Astvatsatsin church is one of the most important sights in Areni village, which is established by the prominent Armenian architect Momik in the 14th century. Despite the fact that many paintings and wall drawings were lost and the dome collapsed because of the earthquake, the church did not lose its masterpiece beauty and elegance. You can see pictures of angels, eagle, lion and bull with wings inside the construction. The church is emphasized with the surrounding marvelous mountains. A special, dark yellow color tuff was used for building the church. The structure is located on a cliff, from where a stunning view of the Arpa River and Areni village opens.
The well-established transport infrastructure of Armenia allows to get to Areni St Astvatsatsin by a private car or with the help of various travel companies which offer regular excursions and tours to different sights of the country. Due to the geographical location of Areni St Astvatsatsin the trip will not seem long.
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.
According to the inscriptions on the western door the church was constructed by Hovhannes Orbelian - the archbishop of Syunik, and the architect Momik in 1321.
Surb Astvatsatsin (Holy Virgin) is the cross-dome church with harmonious proportions. There are a couple of distinctive cross-shaped windows over the apse. The entire interior of the church can be seen entering through the western door.
There were tombstones and khachkars of various times in the churchyard. The small khachkars were created at the same moment as the church. There are the ruins of the fortress belonging to Tarsayich Orbelian near the church, where you can also see the khachkars and tombstones of the 14th-17th century.
ARENI WINERY
2 km
NORAVANK MONASTERY
20 km
HERMON MONASTERY
48 km
)
