Nor Varagavank
Nor Varagavank is a 13th-century Armenian Apostolic Church monastic ensemble located in Armenia's Tavush Province. Established by King David II Kyurikian and expanded by his grandson Vasak II, it served as a significant bishopric center and the Kyurikian family's burial vault. The monastery, originally known as Anapat, was renamed Nor Varagavank when relics from the threatened Varagavank monastery were brought to it.
Key Facts
- ›Established between 1193-1198 by King David II Kyurikian.
- ›Expanded between 1224–1237 by Vasak II Kyurikian.
- ›Served as a bishopric center and the Kyurikian family's burial vault.
- ›Renamed nor Varagavank upon receiving relics from the threatened Varagavank monastery.
- ›Features the church of the Holy Virgin, built between 1224–1237, designed by architect Hovhan from Ani.
- ›Contains the Surb Nshan chapel, the most ancient structure in the complex.
Church of the Holy Virgin, Surb Nshan Chapel, Khachkars, Kyurikian Family Burial Vault
Anapat
King David Ii Kyurikian, Vasak Ii Kyurikian, Patriarch Ghukas, Hovhan, Kirakos Gandzaketsi, Archbishop Hovhanes Tvetsi, Grigor Manucharian, Hripsime, Gayane, Vardan
- Establishment of the Monastic Complex
- Expansion of the Complex
- Relocation of Holy Relics From Vaspurakan
- Active Participation In Freeing Eastern Armenia From Foreign Rule In the Early 19th Century
About Nor Varagavank
Nor Varagavank is a significant monastic ensemble belonging to the Armenian Apostolic Church, located in the Tavush Province of Armenia. Its establishment began in the late 12th century under King David II Kyurikian and was further developed in the early 13th century by his grandson, Vasak II. The monastery is situated on a prominent hill, offering scenic views of the surrounding forested mountains and ravines.
History and Significance
The foundation of the monastic complex is attributed to King David II Kyurikian between 1193 and 1198, with substantial expansion occurring between 1224 and 1237 under Vasak II. The Kyurikians, a branch of the Bagratuni aristocracy, utilized the monastery as their family burial vault and mausoleum. Historically, Nor Varagavank served as a central bishopric and played a crucial role in the ecclesiastical life of medieval Armenia. Initially known as Anapat, meaning hermitage, it was renamed Nor Varagavank (New Varagavank) when relics, including a piece of the True Cross, were brought from the Vaspurakan monastery of Varagavank in 1213, seeking refuge from the Mongol invasions.
Architectural Features
The most prominent structure within the complex is the Church of the Holy Virgin, constructed between 1224 and 1237 by Vasak II Kyurikian and consecrated in 1240. Designed by the architect Hovhan from Ani, the church has a rectangular exterior measuring 10.25 by 15.40 meters and a cruciform interior, notable for its two entrances, the western one adorned with magnificent reliefs on multi-colored stones. The Surb Nshan chapel, the oldest building in the ensemble, features two apses and is distinguished by its illuminated eastern façade and relief decorations. The monastery grounds also contain exceptionally carved khachkars, including a large one near the Church of the Holy Virgin's vestibule, crafted by master Vardan in 1620.
Notable Associations
Nor Varagavank was a place of significant religious and cultural activity. Archbishop Hovhanes Tvetsi, a key 13th-century Armenian figure, resided and worked here, contributing to the construction of the main church's narthex between 1237 and 1261. Later, in the early 19th century, Grigor Manucharian led the monastery and actively participated in efforts to liberate Eastern Armenia from foreign rule, commanding a detachment of armed volunteers.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
When was Nor Varagavank founded?
The monastic complex was established by King David II Kyurikian between 1193 and 1198. It was further expanded by his grandson, Vasak II, between 1224 and 1237.
What is the significance of the name Nor Varagavank?
The monastery was originally called Anapat (hermitage). It was renamed Nor Varagavank, meaning 'New Varagavank,' when relics from the famed Varagavank monastery in Western Armenia were brought to it for safekeeping as Varagavank was threatened by the Mongols.
What is the most important structure at Nor Varagavank?
The most important structure is the church of the Holy Virgin. According to historical inscriptions and the 13th-century historian Kirakos Gandzaketsi, it was built between 1224 and 1237 by Vasak II Kyurikian and consecrated in 1240.
Who designed the church of the Holy Virgin?
The church of the Holy Virgin was designed by Hovhan, an architect who came from the Armenian capital city of Ani. The church is rectangular from the outside and cruciform from the inside.
What is the oldest part of the monastic complex?
The Surb Nshan (Holy Sign) chapel is the most ancient structure within the monastic ensemble. It is located in the southeastern part of the complex and features two apses.
Are there notable khachkars at Nor Varagavank?
Yes, superbly-carved medieval khachkars can be found throughout the complex. A particularly noteworthy large khachkar stands near the vestibule of the church of the Holy Virgin, created by master Vardan in 1620.
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