Vanevan Monastery

Vanevan (Vanevanq) is a graceful monastery near the village of Artsvanist, on the wooded southern shore of Lake Sevan. Its main church of Surb Grigor was founded in 903 AD under the patronage of the princely houses of Syunik, making it one of the older monastic foundations around the lake. Over the centuries it served as a religious and educational center, and its harmonious stone architecture and carved details reflect the confidence of the Bagratuni era. Tucked among trees a short distance from the shore, Vanevan is peaceful and little visited, rewarding travelers who venture along the quieter southern side of Sevan with a serene, leafy retreat.