Goshavank monastery
Goshavank Monastery, located north of Lake Sevan, is one of the greatest and most historically significant monasteries in Armenia. It was built in 1191 on the site of the Getik Church, which had been destroyed by an earthquake, and rose to prominence as Armenia’s largest cultural center in the 13th century under its legendary abbot Mkhitar Gosh, after whom the monastery is now named. Mkhitar Gosh was a fabulist, scholar, and legal expert, who developed his own vision of universal order. His work later served as the foundation for Armenia’s code of laws, making the monastery a hub of intellectual and spiritual activity. Goshavank is also home to one of Armenia’s most famous khachkars (cross-stones), dating back to 1291. Carved from monolithic tuff, the khachkar’s intricate designs appear, from a distance, like delicate lace or massive stone filigree. Up close, every inch of its patterned surface reveals the meticulous craftsmanship of Armenian stone masons—a true Gordian knot carved from stone. Visiting Goshavank Monastery offers not only a journey through Armenia’s medieval spiritual and cultural heritage, but also a chance to witness extraordinary architectural and artistic mastery in a serene and picturesque lakeside setting.
