Bjni

Bjni village is located in Armenia's Kotayk Province, on the right bank of the Hrazdan River, surrounded by hills and cliffs. As one of the oldest and culturally significant villages in Armenia, it is known for its medieval monastic complex, khachkars (cross-stones), fortress, and natural springs. Bjni is mentioned in written sources as early as the 5th–6th centuries, but it gained greater prominence in the 10th–13th centuries during the Bagratid Kingdom and under the rule of the Pahlavuni noble family. In the 11th century, the village and its surroundings came under the control of the Pahlavunis. At that time, by the order of King Hovhannes-Smbat, it became an episcopal residence. In 1066, the election of the Catholicos took place in Bjni. At the beginning of the 13th century, Bjni came under the administration of the Zakarian Armenian princes. Bjni is rich in historical and cultural sites, including: St. Sarkis Church (10th century), St. Astvatsatsin Church (built in 1031), Bjni Fortress (10th century), numerous khachkars and ancient cemeteries dating from the 12th–13th centuries.