A Trip to Tatev Monastery: Armenia’s Iconic Architectural Marvel

As summer nears, the number of tourists flocking to Armenia increases. The tourists as well as locals and many expats living in Yerevan wonder what a thrilling adventure they can organize for a weekend. Traveling to Tatev Monastery is a chance to explore multiple landmarks in Armenia’s south.

First, the road to the monastery goes through several provinces, each having its unique charm and beautiful sites. Besides, when visiting Tatev you have two attractions in one. You visit a medieval monastery with a rich history and take a cable car to enjoy stunning views of the Vorotan Gorge.

Thus, a weekend to Tatev will show you the best of Armenia has beautiful mountains, architectural gems, and delicious food. Stay tuned to find out more about the monastery for an enriching journey through one of Armenia’s most captivating regions.

Road to Tatev Monastery

One of the articles on the Wonder Lush website argues this is Armenia’s best trip. We could not agree more.  The journey, though long, is filled with incredible sights. Of course, it may not seem long for a foreigner because there are countries where driving to work takes two hours. However, the distance of 4.5 – 5 hours by car is rather long for Armenia.

However, the good news is along the way, you can visit several landmarks, making the trip more rewarding. Some combine a trip to Tatev with several stops in Vayots Dzor. For example, visiting the famous Areni winery or heading to Noravank Monastery, nestled in a dramatic canyon. Of course, it should be noted that it’s better to find a place to stay overnight as a day trip when you come back the same evening will be too tiring.

The highlight of the trip is the Wings of Tatev cable car, which offers breathtaking views as you soar into the monastery. This is the world’s longest non-stop reversible cable car offering a breathtaking 5 km journey over a vast gorge. Established in 2010, it dramatically reduces travel time to Tatev Monastery from over an hour to just 12 minutes.

History of Tatev

Tatev Monastery, founded in the 9th century, initially began as a single church. Only a few monks lived there. Everything changed in the 10th century when the Syunik diocese chose Tatev as their residence, transforming it into a significant spiritual center. In another one hundred years the complex expanded with the construction of the St. Peter’s and Paul’s church, Saint Gregory the Illuminator’s Church, and the Holy Mother of God Church. A place for pilgrims to live was also added. According to some sources, over 1,000 monks lived there then.

The monastery became an educational hub, hosting a higher school where students studied theology, philosophy, arithmetic, geometry, astronomy, and anatomy. However, in the late 12th century, Seljuk invasions destroyed many buildings and burned thousands of manuscripts. The Orbelian family later restored the monastery in the 13th and 14th centuries, reestablishing its prominence. Moreover, Tatev University emerged as a major center for philosophy and science in medieval Armenia, preserving Armenian culture during turbulent times.

The history of the monastery was tragic. It constantly faced invasions and looting. Subsequent invasions left it in ruins, forcing monks to relocate. By the late 19th century, only a few monks and a servant remained, while the earthquake of 1931 caused severe damage.

In addition to churches, visitors can explore the restored oil mill, monks’ cells, and refectory. Key attractions include the medieval gates, the pear tree in the center, and the St. Peter and Paul church.

There are two versions where the name of Tatev is derived from. According to one version, the monastery was named after Eustateus, a disciple of St. Thaddeus the Apostle, whose name evolved into Tatev. A folk legend says a builder, falling from the church dome, cried “Ta Tev” meaning “give me wings.”

Architecture of Tatev

The monastery’s architecture features a unique domed basilica design. The prayer hall has two domed pylons and sacristy corners that support the structure. The main entrance is in the west, with an additional entrance in the south, leading to a chapel. Large medieval-style windows with protective arches, featuring images of people and writhing snakes, are notable.

In 930 several frescoes by foreign artists were placed here on the initiative of Bishop Hakob Dvinetsi. Significant frescoes include the Last Judgment on the western wall and the Nativity of Jesus on the northern wall. Unfortunately, little of the frescoes have been preserved.

A standout monument in Tatev is the Gavazan, an eight-meter octagonal stone pillar with a small khachkar. Its goal was to alert about seismic activity, warning of earthquakes and enemy approach. Ancient architects designed it to maintain balance and function as a celestial compass. This also marked the Armenian New Year and helped calculate the light year with the right tools.

What Other Places to Visit During Trip to Tatev?

If you planned a two- or three-day trip to Armenia’s south, you will easily find other fascinating sites. For example, one of them is the Devil’s Bridge, located in the 500-meter gorge of the Vorotan River. It was formed from tuff and is considered a unique natural phenomenon. You can swim in warm springs and explore hidden grottos beneath the bridge.

The other mysterious and unusual place is Carahunge. The place often called the Armenian Stonehenge captivates visitors with over 200 standing stones. This mysterious site, dating back 7,500 years, puzzles archaeologists with its origins and purpose.

Where to Stay When Visiting Tatev?

There are many guesthouses nearby offering breathtaking views of the Vorotan Gorge. Staying in these local guesthouses provides a cozy and authentic experience. Alternatively, you can stay in Goris, a charming town with comfortable accommodations and great amenities. Both options allow you to enjoy delicious Armenian cuisine, featuring local dishes that differ from the cuisine of other regions.