Sevanavank Monastery

Sevanavank crowns a rocky peninsula jutting into Lake Sevan and is among the most visited sites in Armenia. Founded in 874 AD by Princess Mariam, daughter of King Ashot I Bagratuni, it was once an island monastery, cut off from the shore until the lake's level dropped sharply in the Soviet era. Two austere churches of dark tuff survive—Surb Arakelots (Holy Apostles) and Surb Astvatsatsin (Holy Mother of God)—reached by a flight of steps. From the top, panoramic views open over the blue expanse of the lake and the surrounding mountains. The combination of medieval architecture and dramatic setting makes it unforgettable.