Vanevan

Vanevan. Vanevan Monastic Complex was founded in the 10th century and is situated in the village of Artsvanist of Gegharqunik region, on the mouth of a gorge. The main church, called St. Gregory the Illuminator (on the left hand), was built by the Prince Shapuh Bagratuni in 903. Shapuh Bagratuni is the brother of the Armenian king Smbat Bagratuni, who was buried in Vanevan in 914. Their sister Mariam is also considered to be one of the founders of the monastic complex. The church on the right hand and the chapel were revealed later. Nearby there are a spring and a cave which isn’t very deep. A bit far there are the Church of St. Astvatsatsin of Qolatak (9th-10th centuries) and Hnevanq (10th century). Also the cyclopean fortress Bruti berd is situated in the same area.