Arakelots Monastery, Kirants
Arakelots Monastery, also known as the Monastery of the Apostles, is a 13th-century monastic complex situated approximately 3 kilometers southwest of the village of Kirants in Armenia's Tavush Province. Nestled on a forest-covered hill overlooking the Kunen River, the complex features two churches and is part of a region historically significant for its trade routes and numerous settlements. While the main church is a domed hall type, a smaller one is a one-nave basilica, reflecting medieval Armenian architecture.
Key Facts
- ›Founded in the 13th century.
- ›Located in the Tavush Province of Armenia, near the village of Kirants.
- ›The complex includes two churches: a one-nave basilica and a domed hall type.
- ›Surrounded by dense forest on the left bank of the Kunen River.
- ›Ruins of a caravanserai are located approximately 80 meters downhill from the monastery.
Medieval Armenian
Two Churches, Proximity To A Caravanserai Ruin, Forest Setting On A River Bank
Monastery of the Apostles, Arakelots Vank
About Arakelots Monastery, Kirants
Arakelots Monastery, meaning 'Monastery of the Apostles,' is a significant medieval monastic complex located in the Tavush Province of Armenia, approximately three kilometers southwest of the village of Kirants. Established in the 13th century, it stands as a testament to the region's rich historical and spiritual heritage.
Location and Surroundings
The monastery is strategically positioned on the crest of a hill, enveloped by a dense forest and overlooking the Kunen River. This picturesque setting contributed to the area's historical importance as a transit point for trade routes connecting Armenia with neighboring Georgia and Aghvank. The valley of the Aghstev River, in which Arakelots Monastery is found, was historically a densely populated area with numerous settlements and architectural remnants, suggesting a vibrant medieval life.
Architectural Significance
The monastic complex comprises two primary churches. The larger of the two is designed in the domed hall style, while the smaller church adheres to the one-nave basilica typology. The main church, situated at the northern end of what appears to have been a fortified area, is a modest structure measuring 10.25 by 7.45 meters. It is externally clad in milky, yellow, and blue hewn stones, with a lime-plastered interior. Its exterior and interior are notably devoid of any decorations or inscriptions. The monastery's architectural style aligns with the period's Armenian church building traditions.
Historical Context and Nearby Structures
The region surrounding Arakelots Monastery was historically a vital gateway for trade, facilitating economic, political, and cultural exchanges. Evidence of this past prosperity is found in numerous surviving structures, including bridges, caravanserais, and other secular buildings. Approximately 80 meters downhill from the monastery, the ruins of a caravanserai can be found, hinting at the monastery's role within a larger historical infrastructure. Further afield, the ruins of a chapel and a small church known as Khndzorut are also noted in the vicinity, enriching the archaeological landscape of the area.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
When was Arakelots Monastery founded?
Arakelots Monastery was founded in the 13th century. This places its construction firmly within the medieval period of Armenian history.
Where is Arakelots Monastery located?
The monastery is situated about 3 kilometers southwest of the village of Kirants in the Tavush Province of Armenia. It is set on the crest of a hill surrounded by a dense forest on the left bank of the Kunen River.
What are the main architectural features of Arakelots Monastery?
The monastic complex consists of two churches. The larger church is of the domed hall type, while the smaller church is a one-nave basilica. The main church has external dimensions of 10.25 meters by 7.45 meters and features a tall, round drum with a pointed dome.
What other structures are found near Arakelots Monastery?
Approximately 80 meters downhill from the monastery are the ruins of a caravanserai. Additionally, the ruins of a chapel are situated on the next hill, and a small church and khachkar of Khndzorut are located about two kilometers to the northeast.
Related Monasteries
Aghjots Vank
Aghjots Vank, also known as the Saint Stephen Monastery of Goght, is a 13th-century monastic complex located in Armenia's Khosrov State Reserve. While local folklore attributes its founding to Saint Grigor Lusavorich on the site of a martyrdom, historical evidence points to significant construction commissioned by Prince Grigor Khaghbakian and his wife Princess Zaz in 1217. The monastery, comprising the churches of Surp Stepanos and Saints Paul and Peter, has endured numerous destructions and restorations throughout its history, most notably by the Persians in 1603 and in the earthquake of 1679, and now lies in ruins.
Matosavank
Matosavank is a small 13th-century Armenian monastery situated in a forested area of Dilijan National Park, Armenia. It was constructed under the supervision of Avag, son of Ivane of the Mkhargrdzeli dynasty, and is notable for its two adjoining churches, vaulted ceilings, and interior book depositories. Currently in ruins, the monastery is challenging to locate due to its remote setting and misleading trail markers.
Kirants Monastery
Kirants Monastery is a 13th-century Armenian monastery situated in Armenia's Tavush Province. While traditionally Armenian Apostolic, the Georgian Orthodox Church has also asserted a claim to the site. The monastery is known for its frescoes dating from the 1230s-1240s and is believed to have been founded by the Zakarid ruler Avag Zakarian.