Noravank
Noravank is a 13th-century Armenian monastery recognized for its striking architecture set within a dramatic brick-red gorge. It served as a significant religious and cultural center, closely linked with the seats of learning like Gladzor University. The monastery is particularly renowned for its two-storey Surb Astvatsatsin Church, notable for its external stone staircase.
Key Facts
- ›Founded in 1105 by Bishop Hovhannes.
- ›Became a residence for Syunik's bishops in the 13th-14th centuries.
- ›Features the unique two-storey Surb Astvatsatsin Church, completed in 1339.
- ›Architects and artists like Siranes and Momik worked at Noravank.
- ›Located in a narrow gorge known for its tall, sheer, brick-red cliffs.
- ›The complex includes the Surb Karapet Church, S. Grigor chapel, and various khachkars.
Armenian
Surb Astvatsatsin Church, Surb Karapet Church, S. Grigor Chapel, Momik's Khachkar, Orbelian Family Tombs, Brick-Red Cliffs of the Gorge
Noravank At Amaghu
Bishop Hovhannes, Prince Burtel Orbelian, Momik, Siranes, Prince Smbat Orbelian, Prince Tarsayich Orbelian, Elikum
- Founded In 1105.
- Became Residence of Syunik's Bishops In 13th-14th Centuries.
- Surb Astvatsatsin Church Completed In 1339.
- Earthquake Destroyed the Dome of Surb Karapet Church In 1340.
- Dome of Surb Karapet Reconstructed In 1361.
- Dome of Surb Karapet Damaged In Earthquake In 1931.
- Roof and Walls of Surb Karapet Repaired In 1949.
- Roof and Drum of Surb Karapet Rebuilt In 1998.
About Noravank
Noravank Monastery
Noravank, meaning 'new monastery,' is a significant 13th-century Armenian monastery nestled in a dramatic, narrow gorge characterized by striking, sheer brick-red cliffs carved by the Amaghu River. Located approximately 122 km from Yerevan, near Yeghegnadzor in Armenia, it stands as a prominent example of medieval Armenian religious and architectural achievement.
History and Significance
Founded in 1105 by Bishop Hovhannes, Noravank evolved into a major religious and cultural hub, particularly during the 13th and 14th centuries when it served as the residence for Syunik's bishops. This period saw the monastery closely associated with prominent local educational institutions, including the famed university and library at Gladzor. The Orbelian princes also resided at Noravank, contributing to its prominence. The monastery complex features several important structures, including the Surb Karapet Church, the S. Grigor chapel, and the renowned Surb Astvatsatsin Church.
Architectural Highlights
The monastery is celebrated for its architectural splendor, with notable contributions from the architect Siranes and the sculptor and miniaturist Momik. The Surb Astvatsatsin (Holy Mother of God) Church, completed in 1339 and designed by Momik, is a two-storey masterpiece. It is distinguished by its external narrow stone staircase providing access to the upper level and its intricate relief sculptures, including depictions of Christ, Peter, and Paul over the western portal. The church itself served as a family burial vault on the ground floor and a memorial temple above, showcasing a unique composition based on increasing height and decorative richness towards the top.
The Surb Karapet Church, originally built between 1216 and 1227 and later reconstructed, is a cross-within-square design. Its western antechamber features an impressive gavit from 1261, adorned with khachkars and inscribed gravestones. The gavit's tent-like roof, a distinctive feature, imitates the design of peasant homes and contributes to the dimly lit, atmospheric interior. The complex also houses the S. Grigor chapel, which contains Orbelian family tombs, including a notable carved lion/human tombstone.
Artistry and Environment
Beyond its architecture, Noravank is noted for its exquisite khachkars, particularly a 1308 creation by Momik, featuring a Deesis scene. The natural surroundings of the monastery are equally remarkable, forming part of important ecological areas like the Gnisheek Prime Butterfly Area and the Noravank Important Bird Area. The monastery's location amidst the towering, colorful cliffs underscores its profound integration with the landscape.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
When was Noravank monastery founded?
Noravank monastery was founded in 1105 by Bishop Hovhannes. This makes it a significant historical site with roots stretching back to the early 12th century.
What is Noravank monastery famous for?
Noravank is most famous for its unique Surb Astvatsatsin Church, a two-storey structure accessible by an external stone staircase. It is also celebrated for its dramatic setting within a narrow gorge with towering brick-red cliffs.
Who were some notable figures associated with Noravank?
The monastery was a residence for Syunik's bishops and the Orbelian princes. Important artists and architects such as Momik, a sculptor and miniaturist, and Siranes, an architect, also worked at Noravank.
What is the architectural significance of Noravank?
Noravank showcases distinctive Armenian architectural styles of the 13th and 14th centuries, particularly in the Surb Astvatsatsin Church, which features intricate reliefs and a unique tower-like structure. The Surb Karapet Church and its gavit also display notable design elements.
What is the natural environment around Noravank like?
Noravank is situated in a narrow gorge characterized by tall, sheer, brick-red cliffs. The surrounding area is part of the Gnisheek Prime Butterfly Area and the Noravank Important Bird Area, supporting a variety of flora and fauna.
Related Monasteries
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