Vanevan Monastery

Vanevan Monastery is an Armenian Apostolic religious site located in the Gegharkunik Province of Armenia, situated along a gorge south of the village of Artsvanist and southeast of Lake Sevan. The monastery's primary structure, the Church of Saint Grigor, was constructed in 903 by Prince Shapuh Bagratuni and his sister Mariam, who were related to King Smbat I of Armenia. While the main church dates to the early 10th century, the gavit situated between two churches was added at a later period. The monastery is historically significant as the burial place of King Smbat I, who was interred there in 914.

Architecture and Features

The architecture of Vanevan Monastery is notable for its churches, particularly the Church of Saint Grigor. This church exhibits a distinctive design characterized by four central arches that progressively widen, a feature also found in the contemporary Tatev Monastery, suggesting shared architectural influences or builders. The drum of Saint Grigor's church is octagonal both on the interior and exterior, with an inscription on the latter that helps date the structure. While the dome on the main church remains, the drum and dome of the other church have collapsed.

Behind the monastery, a spring and cave are present, which historical accounts suggest were once utilized as an escape route from invaders. In the vicinity, a large, though now broken, khachkar monument stands to the east. Nearby archaeological findings include an early cemetery and the remains of another church just south of Artsvanist, along with other early medieval churches and the cyclopean fortress of Bruti Berd, indicating a rich historical landscape in the region.