Kaptavank Monastery

Kaptavank stands 5 km southwest of Chinchin village in the Tavush region. Of the once large monastic complex only the church remains; a bell tower once adjoined it, and residential buildings and graves of the monastic community lay around it.

According to an inscription on its western wall, the monastery was built in the mid-12th century and consecrated in 1151. The inscription names the church Saint Astvatsatsin (Holy Mother of God).

The church was built of large and medium-sized bluish basalt stones, which is most likely the origin of its name, Kaptavank (Blue Monastery).

Legend has it that Kaptavank was built by an unskilled architect who did not consult with builders before construction. Historical references to the monastery are few, and surviving records call it a “cathedral”, a “monastery” or simply a “church”.

Inside are numerous fragments of khachkars (cross-stones) decorated with floral and geometric motifs. The monastery was once walled, with a historic settlement around it, and the area is rich in clear springs, picturesque gorges and forested mountains.