Areni – Noravank – Gladzor

• Village Areni is one of the oldest villages of historical Syunik. The significance of the village was explained, first of all, by its geographical location on exit from a gorge, connecting Vayots Dzor with the valley of Sharur. Thereby, the village was not only a resting-place, but also an important military point. On the surrounding heights military fortifications were built. In the XIII century King Orbelyan Tarsaich built a palace here. By his order Bishop Sarkis (1265-1287) of Noravank built a three-arch bridge near Areni on the river, the foundation of which remained till our days. In 1321 by the order of Bishop Hovhannes of Syunik the architect Momik built St. Astvatsatsin Church in Areni.

• Noravank Monastery is located among fancy sheer red cliffs at the mouth of a meandering gorge. The Monastery was founded in the XII century on the site of ancient buildings. In the days of King Orbelyan it became a major religious center, and in the XIV century – the residence of the Bishops of Syunik. The gorge is famous for sheer red cliffs, rising behind the Monastery, on the territory of which is located a two-story St. Astvatsatsin Church with narrow cantilevered staircases. This Church, the construction of which was finished in 1339, is considered the last masterpiece of a talented Armenian sculptor and miniaturist Momik. The Monastery was built in the XII century on the site of ancient constructions. On the days of Orbelyan Kings it became a large religious center, and in the XIV century – the residence of Syunik’s episcopes. 

• Gladzor University is 5 km north from Eghegnadzor, on a picturesque mountain plateau. It was built more than seven hundred years ago and it was one of the most famous centers of enlightenment of medieval Armenia. Time hadn’t preserved its constructions in it, from which only the marks of foundation had remained. A small museum, created in St. Hakob Church of Vernashen, can familiarize with the University, which were founded at the beginning of 1280s by scientist and pedagogue Nerses Msheci in humble Tanahat Monastery. There were taught disciplines, which were accepted in the high schools of medieval Armenia long ago.