Geghard Monastery

Geghard is a medieval monastery complex in Armenia. It is located in the Kotayk Province, near the village of Goght, on the right bank of the upper Azat River. The 1200 inscription mentions the Amarnatak or Amarnamatak stream, on whose bank the monastery complex was built. The famous spear, with which a Roman soldier pierced the side of Christ, was kept here. It was brought to Armenia by one of the first Christian preachers, Apostle Thaddeus. It is now located in Vagharshapat, in the history museum. The monastery complex was built in the early Middle Ages on a site that served as a sanctuary in pre-Christian times. One of these springs is still preserved inside the main gavit of the monastery. According to tradition, the first church was founded in the early 4th century when Christianity was proclaimed the state religion in Armenia. It was known as 'Ayrivank' or 'Monastery of the Caves'. The founding of the monastery is traditionally attributed to the first Catholicos of Armenia, Gregory the Illuminator (301-325), and its subsequent prosperity to Sahak Partev (387-439). In later periods, the monastery was renowned as a center of manuscript writing, a school, a music academy, and a pilgrimage site. Pilgrimage days to Geghard are on the feasts of Vardavar and the Assumption of the Virgin.

Goght village, Kotayk Province

Monasteries & Churches