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Zorats Church

Region

Vayots Dzor

Distance from Yerevan

140.6 km

Type

Monastery/Church

"Zorats Church, also known as Zorats Khach, was built in 1303 by Stepanos Tarsayich, a bishop from the Orbelian dynasty. The church has a classical design, being a single-nave structure, with its interior beautifully decorated with Armenian symbols. Interestingly, the name ""Zorats"" comes from the word ""zor"" (meaning ""force"" or ""power""), reflecting the religious significance of the time. Zorats Church holds great historical and cultural value, as religious manuscripts and publications important to Armenian culture were preserved here. It is frequently visited by pilgrims and it has a deep spiritual significance to the local community."

Interesting

facts about Zorats Church

Facts

Zorats Church is unique in its structure—instead of a traditional altar, it features an elevated open-air platform, allowing soldiers to participate in the liturgy without dismounting from their horses.

It is believed that this church was specifically built for soldiers, so they could receive blessings before battles while remaining on horseback.

The founder of the church, Stepanos Tarsayich, was a descendant of the Orbelian dynasty and the grandson of the great prince Tarsayich Orbelian."

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 Zorats Church depends on the weather conditions.

Sights

near Zorats Church

Yeghegis Jewish Cemetery

1 km

Arates Monastery

11 km

Smbataberd Fortress

13 km

Smbataberd Fortress

13 km

Zorats Church on the map on Armenia