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.
Key Facts
- ›Founded in the 13th century.
- ›Located in Dilijan National Park, Tavush Province, Armenia.
- ›Consists of two adjoining churches dedicated to Surb Astvatsatsin of Pghndzahank.
- ›Construction overseen by Avag of the Mkhargrdzeli dynasty.
- ›Features include book depositories and vaulted ceilings.
- ›The church is currently in ruins and difficult to find.
Armenian
Book Depositories, Vaulted Ceilings, Two Adjoining Churches, Tile Roofing
մաթոսավանք
Avag of the Mkhargrdzeli Dynasty, Ivane of the Mkhargrdzeli Dynasty
- Construction Overseen By Avag During A Period of Mongol Influence.
About Matosavank
Matosavank is a 13th-century Armenian monastery located in a secluded, forested area of Dilijan National Park, within the Tavush Province of Armenia. Situated approximately 3 kilometers northwest of the town of Dilijan, it lies in proximity to the Jukhtak Vank monastery and an adjacent cemetery. The monastery, officially known as the church of Surb Astvatsatsin of Pghndzahank, currently exists in a state of ruin and can be challenging to locate due to the often misleading trail markers in its natural setting.
Construction and History
The construction of Matosavank was undertaken with the supervision of Avag, son of Ivane of the prominent Mkhargrdzeli dynasty. Avag's involvement occurred during a period of significant Mongol influence, as he had previously vowed submission to the invading armies. He later rose to prominence as the military leader of combined Georgian and Armenian forces under Möngke Khan, the fourth Great Khan of the Mongol Empire.
Architecture and Features
The small church at Matosavank, built in 1247, comprises two adjoining churches. Its construction utilized roughly hewn stones, with the interior surfaces covered in plaster. The interior spaces include a main hall, book depositories, and a portico, all featuring vaulted ceilings that have largely endured over time. The western walls of the church are adjacent to the portico, while the southern wall at the altar connects to the book depository. An inscription on the exterior of the structure details the foundation of the church. Evidence of its original tile roofing can still be observed.
Current Status
Matosavank is presently in ruins. Its remote location within the national park and the unreliability of trail markers contribute to its relative obscurity and difficulty for visitors to find. Despite its dilapidated condition, the monastery remains a testament to the architectural and historical heritage of the region.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
When was Matosavank founded?
Matosavank was constructed in the 13th century. Specifically, the church of Surb Astvatsatsin of Pghndzahank, which forms part of Matosavank, was built in 1247.
Where is Matosavank located?
Matosavank is situated in a forested area of Dilijan National Park, approximately 3 km northwest of the town of Dilijan in the Tavush Province of Armenia. It is located close to the monastery of Jukhtak Vank.
What is the current state of Matosavank?
The church at Matosavank is currently in ruins. It is also relatively difficult to find, as trail markers in the area can be misleading.
Who was responsible for the construction of Matosavank?
The construction of Matosavank was overseen by Avag, the son of Ivane of the Mkhargrdzeli dynasty. He had vowed submission to the Mongol invading armies and later became a military leader for Georgian and Armenian forces.
What are the notable architectural features of Matosavank?
Matosavank's church is composed of two adjoining structures. It features interior book depositories and a portico, with vaulted ceilings that remain largely intact. The building is constructed from roughly hewn stones, plastered on the interior, and some tile roofing is still visible.
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.
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.
Tegher Monastery
Tegher Monastery is an early 13th-century Armenian monastic complex situated on the southeastern slopes of Mount Aragats. Commissioned by Princess Khatun, it comprises the church of Surb Astvatsatsin and an adjacent gavit. The monastery is noted for its dark gray basalt construction and distinctive architectural features, having been designed by the architect Vardapet Aghbayrik.