Tsitsernavank Monastery

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Region

Artsakh

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Distance from Yerevan

339.7 km

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Type

Monastery/Church

Tsitsernavank Monastery is one of Armenia’s most renowned pilgrimage churches, located on the northwestern edge of the village of the same name, on the right bank of the Aghavno River. It dates back to the 4th–6th centuries and is classified among the early Christian Armenian three-nave basilicas. The church was constructed in several stages, clearly reflecting the influences of different historical periods. According to some historical sources, a pagan temple once stood on the site, which was later converted into a church following Armenia’s adoption of Christianity. The Tsitsernavank basilica has several unique architectural features rarely seen in Armenian church design. One of the most notable is the absence of a western entrance, a characteristic more commonly found in pagan structures, and an exception among basilicas. Other striking elements include a vaulted hall above the altar, no windows in the apse, and the lack of load-bearing arches for the vaults. The monastery is known by multiple names—Tsitsernavank, Tsitsernakavank, Tsitserno, Tsitsarnu, and Matnevank. The latter, “Matnevank,” is linked to a sacred relic preserved there—the finger of the Apostle Peter. In classical Armenian, the word for pinky is “tsitsern”, and according to tradition, this gave the monastery its name. This connection is also mentioned in medieval Armenian hymns, confirming its deep spiritual and cultural significance as a sacred site.

Interesting

facts about Tsitsernavank Monastery

Vanik
fact

Facts

fun-fact1
According to legend, while the church was being built, a snake poisoned food that had been prepared for the workers. A crow attempted to warn them by circling overhead, but the people misinterpreted its behavior and killed it. After realizing the truth, they honored the crow as a savior, buried it, and named the area “Grave of the Crow”. The three snakes carved into the church wall are likely linked to this legend.
fun-fact2
Tsitsernavank thrived especially during the 15th–17th centuries. In that period, a fortified wall with an arched gate (built in 1633) was added, along with a refectory and a judgment hall on the southern side. The church itself was restored in 1779.
fun-fact3
Sadly, under Azerbaijani control, the church was desecrated—turned into a cattle barn. The floor was completely destroyed, endangering the very existence and testimony of this architectural monument
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Weather in Artsakh

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 Tsitsernavank Monastery depends on the weather conditions.

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