Homepage Sights of Armenia The Kecharis Monastic Complex

The Kecharis Monastic Complex

Region

Kotayk

Distance from Yerevan

57 km

Type

Monastery/Church

The Kecharis Monastic Complex is located in Tsaghkadzor and includes four churches, a narthex, chapels, and around 30 khachkars (from the 11th to 17th centuries). The complex was formed in the 11th–13th centuries through the efforts of the Pahlavuni and Proshyan (Khaghbakyan) noble families. The main church, St. Gregory the Illuminator, was built in 1003 by Grigor Magistros Pahlavuni. To its south is St. Nshan Church, likely also built by Grigor Magistros in 1051. Between 1203–1214, architect Vetsik, with the support of Vasak Khaghbakyan, built the Katoghike Holy Mother of God Church. About 120 meters away lies St. Harutyun Church, built in 1220, notable for its unique floor plan. A significant feature of the complex is the 13th-century memorial khachkar of architect Vetsik, erected by his architect brothers.

Interesting

facts about The Kecharis Monastic Complex

Facts

Kecharis was a notable cultural, educational, and religious center, home to figures such as Grigor Magistros, Vasak Khaghbakyan, architect Vetsik, and Khachatur Kecharetsi, a monk and poet.

Kecharis was also a manuscript center, and many Armenian manuscripts written and copied here have survived.

The complex is the burial site of Grigor Apiratyan, who died in battle against the Seljuks (1099), Grand Prince Prosh (1284), and others.

Weather in Kotayk

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 Kecharis monastery depends on the weather conditions.

Sights

near The Kecharis Monastic Complex

Orbeli Brothers House Museum

1 km

Tsaghakadzor City

2 km

Bjni

23 km

BJNI FORTRESS

23 km