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Sights of Armenia Vayots Dzor
Arkazi Monastery
- RegionVayots Dzor
- Distance from Yerevan136.8 km
- TypeMonastery/Church
Vayots Dzor
About this place
"Historical information about the Arkazi Monastery dates back to the 8th century.
According to tradition, when Princess Byureghik of Armenia provided immense assistance in retrieving the stolen relic of Christ’s Holy Cross from Persia, she was granted a fragment of the cross. She enshrined it at this location, leading to the monastery being named Surb Khach (Holy Cross). Due to this significant historical event, the Arkazi monastic complex continues to attract thousands of pilgrims to this day.
Architecturally, the church follows a basilica style and is constructed from sandstone. In recent years, a refectory and rooms for pilgrims have also been built."
Interesting
facts about Arkazi Monastery
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In February 1921, the Arkazi Monastery became a headquarter of the struggle of Vayots Dzor against the occupying Bolsheviks.
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There is an interesting legend about the selection of the monastery’s construction site. To determine the location for the church, they placed the relic of the cross and the collected funds on a mule and set it free. The church was to be built where the mule stopped and slept. Along the way, the mule lay down at one spot but did not sleep, so a khachkar (cross-stone) was placed there instead. Finally, when the mule slept, they began digging at that location and discovered a khachkar, which inspired the builders.
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The church was extensively renovated in 1870-71."
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 Arkazi Monastery depends on the weather conditions.
Arkazi Monastery
FAQ
Why is Arkazi Monastery called Surb Khach?
According to tradition, Princess Byureghik of Armenia gave immense help in retrieving the stolen relic of Christ’s Holy Cross from Persia and was granted a fragment of it. She enshrined it here, so the monastery was named Surb Khach (Holy Cross), and it still attracts thousands of pilgrims.
How old is Arkazi Monastery?
Historical information about Arkazi Monastery dates back to the 8th century. The church was extensively renovated in 1870–71.
What does the church at Arkazi look like?
The church is a basilica built of sandstone. In recent years a refectory and rooms for pilgrims have also been built.
What legend tells how the site of Arkazi Monastery was chosen?
The relic of the cross and the collected funds were placed on a mule that was set free, and the church was to be built where it stopped and slept. Where the mule lay down but did not sleep, a khachkar was placed; where it finally slept, the builders dug and found a khachkar, which inspired them.
What role did Arkazi Monastery play in 1921?
In February 1921, Arkazi Monastery became the headquarters of the struggle of Vayots Dzor against the occupying Bolsheviks.
Vayots Dzor
Plan your visit
Address
Arkaz's Saint Cross Church, Малишка, Армения
Vayots Dzor
Sights near Arkazi Monastery
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