A monastery perched on the edge of a gorge

Saghmosavank is located in Aragatsotn Province, on the edge of the Kasagh River gorge above the village of Saghmosavan. From the monastery courtyard there is a view of the gorge’s sheer cliffs, one of the most impressive natural backdrops for a monastic complex in Armenia.

Foundation and the Zakarians

The monastery was founded in 1215 by the brothers Zakare and Ivane Zakarian, at the height of their political and military power. The main church of the Holy Mother of God, the gavit, the scriptorium, and several auxiliary buildings were constructed at this time.

Architecture

The sculpted decoration of the church façade, the design of the gavit’s arches, and the details of the scriptorium reflect the characteristic style of Armenian architecture in the Zakarian period. The khachkars and inscriptions on the walls tell the stories of the noble families and benefactors who supported the monastery.

Today

Together with Hovhannavank, Saghmosavank forms the main “monasteries” route of Aragatsotn, and the two are usually visited on the same day. The view of the Kasagh gorge and the monastery’s peaceful atmosphere are especially beloved by photographers and nature lovers.