Kecharis Monastery

Kecharis is a medieval monastery complex located in the ski-resort town of Tsaghkadzor, Kotayk region. Kecharis Monastery was a major religious and educational centre. The monastery was built by Grigor Magistros Pahlavuni (990-1058), a renowned scholar, philosopher, poet, political and military figure.

The main church of the monastery, Saint Grigor, was erected in 1013. The other two churches of the monastery are St. Nshan Church ('Holy Sign') and the Katoghike (Cathedral) church built in the 13th century.

The chapel of Saint Grigor stands between the churches of Saint Grigor and Surp Nshan, while the chapel of Surp Harutyun (Holy Resurrection), is on a forest glade, away from the main group. It was built in 1220 and has a unique layout. 

The monastery is situated in the Pambak Mountain Range. The splendid view of the monastery and the surrounding mountains are very impressive and calming. Many great Armenian medieval scientists lived and worked here. Dozens of manuscripts written and copied in Kecharis have been preserved until now.