Tatev Monastery — Local services in Syunik Province

The 9th-century Armenian Apostolic Tatev monastery located on a large basalt plateau near the Tatev village in Syunik Province in southeastern Armenia. The term "Tatev" usually refers to the monastery. The monastic ensemble stands on the edge of a deep gorge of the Vorotan River. Tatev is known as the bishopric seat of Syunik and played a significant role in the history of the region as a center of economic, political, spiritual and cultural activity.

The Tatev plateau has been in use since pre-Christian times, hosting a pagan temple. The temple was replaced with a modest church following the Christianization of Armenia in the 4th century.

The monastery boasts an upright pendulum, known as the Gavazan Column. This monument is dedicated to the Holy Trinity. The Gavazan Column was built in the 10th century following the completion of the Paul and Peter church and has survived numerous invasions and earthquakes relatively unscathed.

Why??

Because nearly a thousand years before the development of the modern seismograph in the 19th century, Armenian monks living in the Tatev monastery constructed the “Gavazan” Column, a pillar with a pivoting base, which tilted when the ground shook from tremors caused by earthquakes and invading armies.

So if today's scientist and engineers studied ancient history maybe certain things would have been...

Beautiful paradise like place on earth, Armenia has a long history and each has left it's imprint. There are lots of places of tourist interest. One such place is Tatev Monastery. It is a 9th-century Armenian Apostolic monastery resting on a large basalt plateau near the Tatev village in Syunik Province in southeastern  Armenia overlooking the deep gorge of the Vorotan River. Tatev played an important role as a center of economic, political, spiritual and cultural activity. Tatev is 280 km from Yerevan and is near to Goris City. Christianisation of Armenia in 4th century CE replaced the pre- Christian pagan temple at Tatev plateau with modest Church. Seljuk invasions in the 12th century and the earthquake in 1136 significantly damaged the monastery. It was rebuilt in 13th century CE. Even after this many episodes of looting and destruction have tried to destroy the great historical place. But constant reconstruction each time made the monastery stand high as of today. The fortified Tatev monastery consists of three churches Saints Paul and Peter, Saint Gregory the Illuminator, and Holy Mother of God. In addition there is a library, refectory, bell tower, mausoleum, as well as other administrative and auxiliary buildings. It is devine. It is serene. It is a great place on earth. Visit and Be...

Tatev Monastery is one of Armenia's most iconic and breathtaking landmarks, offering a perfect blend of historical significance, architectural beauty, and stunning natural surroundings. Perched dramatically on the edge of a deep gorge in the Syunik region, the monastery dates back to the 9th century and was once a major center of learning and culture in medieval Armenia.

The complex itself is well-preserved, with its impressive stone structures, including the Church of St. Peter and Paul, and intricate carvings that reflect Armenia's rich religious and architectural heritage. The view from Tatev is absolutely spectacular, with panoramic vistas of the surrounding mountains and valleys that make the journey worthwhile.

One of the highlights of visiting Tatev is taking the Wings of Tatev, the world’s longest reversible cable car, which offers breathtaking aerial views as you soar over the gorge. The combination of natural beauty, historical depth, and spiritual atmosphere makes Tatev Monastery a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Armenia.

Highly recommended for history buffs, nature lovers, and anyone seeking an unforgettable...