Makenyats Vank
Makenyats Vank is a significant Armenian monastery located in the Gegharkunik Province of Armenia. Founded in 851 by Prince Grigor Supan II, it flourished as a major cultural and educational center during the medieval period. The monastery is characterized by its 9th–13th century Armenian architecture, including the central S. Astvatsatsin Church with its unique bas-relief horse carving.
Key Facts
- ›Founded in 851 by Prince Grigor Supan II.
- ›Served as a major cultural and educational center for medieval Gegharkunik.
- ›Features the S. Astvatsatsin Church with a cruciform plan and conical dome.
- ›Notable architectural elements include a bas-relief horse carving on the main portal lintel.
- ›Numerous khachkars are integrated into the monastery's walls.
- ›Includes a medieval sanitary facility along the outer wall.
Armenian
S. Astvatsatsin Church, Bas-Relief Horse Carving, Khachkars, Medieval Sanitary Facility
Makenyats Monastery
Prince Grigor Supan Ii, Princess Mariam
About Makenyats Vank
Makenyats Vank is an Armenian monastery dating from the 9th to 13th centuries, situated in the village of Makenis within the Gegharkunik Province of Armenia. Its historical significance is rooted in its role as a prominent cultural and educational hub for the medieval province of Gegharkunik. The monastery was established in 851 with the initial construction of its central church, S. Astvatsatsin, by Prince Grigor Supan II, son of Princess Mariam.
Architecture and Features
The primary structure, the S. Astvatsatsin Church, is designed with a cruciform plan and topped by a conical dome supported by a circular tholobate. The interior of the church receives light from four windows in the tholobate. A distinctive artistic element is a large horse carved in bas-relief found on the interior basalt lintel of the church's main portal.
Numerous khachkars, traditional Armenian stone crosses, are placed along both the inner and outer walls of the monastery complex. A cemetery surrounds the church, particularly on its western side, containing both medieval and contemporary burials. Adding to its historical context, a medieval sanitary facility is located along the outer wall near the southwest corner, overlooking the gorge.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
When was Makenyats Vank founded?
Makenyats Vank was founded in 851. The construction of its central church, S. Astvatsatsin, began in that year.
Who founded Makenyats Vank?
The monastery was founded by Prince Grigor Supan II. He was the son of Princess Mariam, who was also known for founding Kotavank.
What is the architectural style of Makenyats Vank?
The monastery exhibits 9th–13th century Armenian architecture. The main church, S. Astvatsatsin, is cruciform in plan and features a conical dome.
What are some unique features of Makenyats Vank?
A notable feature is a large horse carved in bas-relief on the interior basalt lintel of the main church's portal. The monastery also incorporates numerous khachkars along its walls.
What was the historical significance of Makenyats Vank?
Makenyats Vank was a major cultural and educational center for the medieval province of Gegharkunik. It played a vital role in the region's intellectual and spiritual life.
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