Spitakavor Monastery
Spitakavor Monastery is a 14th-century Armenian monastic complex situated on the slopes of Teksar mountain in Armenia's Vayots Dzor Province. Known for its white felsite stone construction and its picturesque, isolated setting, it was built by princes of the Proshyan dynasty and served as a significant cultural and educational center. Despite attacks and devastation over centuries, the church and remnants of the monastery survive and are accessible to visitors.
Key Facts
- ›Constructed from white felsite stone, giving it the name 'White Monastery'.
- ›Founded in the 14th century by princes of the Proshyan dynasty.
- ›Served as an important cultural, educational, and spiritual center.
- ›Attacked and damaged by Lenk Timur's armies in the 14th century and later by Ak-Koyunlu and Kara Koyunlu tribes.
- ›The remains of Armenian military leader Garegin Nzhdeh are secretly buried in the monastery's yard.
- ›Sometimes referred to as Tsaghkavank (Monastery of Flowers) due to surrounding springtime flora.
Armenian
Spitakavor Church of the Holy Mother of God, Bell-Tower, Narthex, Sculptures and Reliefs, Fortified Walls, Garegin Nzhdeh's Burial Site
White Monastery, Tsaghkavank
Prince Eachi, Prince Amir Hasan Ii, Hovhannes Proshian, Tadzna, Vardapet Avagter, Garegin Nzhdeh
- Construction of the Church Began By Prince Eachi and Completed By His Son Prince Amir Hasan Ii.
- Construction of the Narthex and Bell-Tower.
- Attack and Destruction By Lenk Timur's Armies.
- Devastation By Ak-Koyunlu and Kara Koyunlu Tribes.
- Forcible Resettlement of Armenians Under Shah Abbas During the Persian-Ottoman War.
- Secret Burial of Garegin Nzhdeh's Remains.
About Spitakavor Monastery
Spitakavor Monastery, meaning "White Monastery" in Armenian, is a 14th-century monastic complex located on the challenging slopes of Teksar mountain in Armenia's Vayots Dzor Province. Constructed from distinctive white felsite stone, the monastery, its church, bell-tower, and vestibule were built behind fortified walls. The site is renowned for its isolated and breathtaking natural setting, often described as harmonious with the surrounding untouched greenery.
History and Significance
The monastery's construction was initiated by Prince Eachi of the Proshyan dynasty, with his son Prince Amir Hasan II completing the church in 1321. The narthex and a three-story bell-tower were added between 1321 and 1330 by Hovhannes Proshian and his wife, Tadzna. Under Father Superior and Philologist Vardapet Avagter, Spitakavor became an "important cultural, educational and spiritual center." Historically, it was part of a communication network with nearby monasteries using fire signals.
Destruction and Preservation
Despite its significance, Spitakavor Monastery endured considerable damage. In the 14th century, armies under Lenk Timur destroyed its walls and narthex. Later, in the 14th or 15th century, after the decline of Mongol rule, the Ak-Koyunlu and Kara Koyunlu tribes attacked and "devastated" the region, further damaging the church, narthex, walls, and service buildings. The church survived until the Persian-Ottoman War in 1604, when mass deportations under Shah Abbas impacted the region. Today, the church and the remains of the monastery stand, with information panels installed for visitors.
Garegin Nzhdeh's Burial Site
In a more recent historical development, the remains of the Armenian military leader and political thinker Garegin Nzhdeh were secretly buried in the monastery's yard on May 9, 1987, or in 1983, after his death in a Soviet prison. Annually on June 17, Armenians from around the world conduct a pilgrimage to his tomb, marked by a cross stone sculpted by Gegham Sahakyan.
Artistic and Notable Features
Beyond its historical context, Spitakavor Monastery features artistic elements. The headstone of the church's entrance bears a sculpture of Mary, described as a "remarkable example of mid-century Armenian sculpture." Other artistic works included sculptures of Jesus with his disciples and a relief of Prince Eachi and his son. While the relief of the prince and his father is housed in the Hermitage Museum in Saint Petersburg, a wall hanging depicting Prince Hasan is held by the History Museum of Armenia in Yerevan.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
When was Spitakavor Monastery founded?
Spitakavor Monastery was founded in the 14th century. Construction of the main church began in the early 14th century, with additions like the narthex and bell-tower completed by 1330.
Where is Spitakavor Monastery located?
The monastery is located on the slopes of Teksar mountain in the Vayots Dzor Province of Armenia. It is situated about 7 kilometers north of Vernashen village.
What is the significance of Spitakavor Monastery?
It was an important cultural, educational, and spiritual center under the guidance of Father Superior Vardapet Avagter. The monastery is also noted for its artistic works, including sculptures and reliefs, and its breathtaking natural setting.
Has the monastery been damaged historically?
Yes, the monastery has faced historical damage. Its walls and narthex were attacked and destroyed by Lenk Timur's armies in the 14th century, and later the church, narthex, walls, and service buildings were devastated by Ak-Koyunlu and Kara Koyunlu tribes.
Is Spitakavor Monastery accessible to visitors?
Yes, the church and the remains of the monastery are preserved and accessible to visitors. Information panels in multiple languages have been installed to aid visitors.
Who is buried at Spitakavor Monastery?
The remains of the Armenian military leader and political thinker Garegin Nzhdeh are secretly buried in the monastery's yard. An annual pilgrimage is conducted to his tomb on June 17.
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