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Sights of Armenia Vayots Dzor

Gndevank Monastery

  • RegionVayots Dzor
  • Distance from Yerevan158.8 km
  • TypeMonastery/Church

Vayots Dzor

About this place

"Gndevank Monastic Complex holds a unique place among the many monasteries and churches of Vayots Dzor. The first structure of the complex, the Church of St. Stephen, was built between 931-936, while the narthex was added later, in 999. Founded as early as the 10th century, the monastery has witnessed both periods of prosperity and decline throughout its millennia-long history. In 1604, Gndevank was devastated and plundered by Shah Abbas. It was later restored in 1691 when, through the efforts of Archpriest Petros, both the church and the narthex were renovated. Additionally, the monastery's defensive structures, including the fortress walls, were reinforced and supplemented with towers and bastions."

Interesting

facts about Gndevank Monastery

  1. The monastery got its name, Gndevank, from the hermit father Supian Gnduni.

  2. The monastery's grounds contain numerous khachkars (cross-stones) dating back to the 16th-17th centuries.

  3. In 1875, a hidden cache in the monastery's courtyard was discovered, containing church utensils and other artifacts, including a bell dated 1307."

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 Gndevank Monastery depends on the weather conditions.

Gndevank Monastery

FAQ

What is Gndevank Monastery?

Gndevank is a monastic complex in Vayots Dzor that holds a unique place among the region's many monasteries and churches. Founded in the 10th century, it has seen periods of both prosperity and decline over its thousand-year history.

When was Gndevank built?

The first structure of the complex, the Church of St. Stephen, was built in 931–936, and the narthex was added later, in 999.

What happened to Gndevank in 1604?

In 1604 Gndevank was devastated and plundered by Shah Abbas. It was restored in 1691 through the efforts of Archpriest Petros, when the church and narthex were renovated and the fortress walls were reinforced with towers and bastions.

How did Gndevank get its name?

The monastery took its name, Gndevank, from the hermit father Supian Gnduni.

What can you see at Gndevank?

Besides the church and its narthex, the grounds hold numerous khachkars (cross-stones) from the 16th–17th centuries. In 1875 a hidden cache was found in the courtyard, containing church utensils and other artefacts, including a bell dated 1307.

Vayots Dzor

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Address

Gndevank, Гндеваз, Армения

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