Khoranashat Monastic Complex

Khoranashat Monastic Complex is one of the masterpieces of medieval Armenian architecture and was a significant educational and scientific center. The monastery was founded in the first half of the 13th century. The founder of the monastery and its theological school was Vardapet Vanakan (1181–1251), a prominent public figure, scholar, teacher, and theologian of medieval Armenia. He received his education at Goshavank’s theological school and was a disciple of the famous scholar Mkhitar Gosh. Today, the monastery is in a semi-ruined state, yet it remains majestic, blending harmoniously with its natural surroundings. The Khoranashat Monastic Complex includes the Saint Astvatsatsin, Saint Kiraki, and Saint Hermit (Jgnavor) churches, as well as a narthex and auxiliary buildings.