Noravank Monastery

Noravank is a monastic complex of the 13th-14th century. It is located 122 km from Yerevan, nearby the town of Yeghegnadzor, Vayots Dzor Region. The building is considered an architectural masterpiece created by the 14th-century artist, sculptor and architect Momik.

The monastery includes the three churches: Saint Astvatsatsin, Saint Karapet and Saint Grigor, the courtyard and the mausoleum of Duke Smbat. At the western side of the church are the remains of an ancient building. The courtyard was built after the construction of the church. In 1321 the courtyard was destroyed by the earthquake. Later it was reconstructed by the eminent sculptor and architect Momik.

The main church of the monastery - St Astvatsatsin, is an impressive three-story building that was built in 1339. The rectangular ground floor is a sepulchre. Narrow cantilever stairs above the western entry lead to the second floor. The facade of the church is decorated with bas relief sculptures. The architect Momik died the same year the construction of Noravank was completed (1339) and was buried at the church. 

Noravank Monastery has been included in the UNESCO tentative list since 1995.