Goshavank

Goshavank is a medieval monastery built not far from the ruins of an older church named Getik which was destroyed by an earthquake in 1188. It is located in the village of Gosh, Tavush Region, at the left bank of the Getik River.

The Monastery was named after Mkhitar Gosh, a prominent Armenian scientist, historian, writer, and teacher who worked and lived here for 25 years. Goshavank used to be not only a religious, but also an important educational and cultural centre. 

Mkhitar Gosh founded here a school where languages (Armenian, Latin, Greek), Grammar, Philosophy, music, drawing and other disciplines were taught. Goshavank was one of the famous centres of manuscript-writing. Numerous manuscripts were kept in the book depository of the monastery.

The Monastery was built by Mkhitar Gosh with the support of Prince Ivane Zakaryan in the 12th century. The main church of the Monastery St. Astvatsatsin was built in 1191. Other churches of the monastery are St. Grigor Lusavorich (1237-1241) and St. Grigor (1208-1231). The chapels of St Hripsime and St Arakelots were also built by Mkhitar Gosh in 1208. The church of St. Gevorg was built in 1254 after the death of Mkhitar Gosh. 

The complex also includes a narthex, a two-storey scriptorium - belfry, and many khachkars (cross-stones).