Kecharis Monastery Tourism

Kecharis Monastery, located in the ski resort town of Tsaghkadzor in Armenia, is a medieval monastic complex dating back to the 11th to 13th centuries. Nestled at an altitude of approximately 1845 meters above sea level, it stands against the backdrop of the picturesque Teghenis Mountains. The monastery was a major religious, cultural, and educational center in medieval Armenia. It consists of three churches - the Surb Grigor (St. Gregory) Church, the Surb Nshan (Holy Sign) Church, and the Surb Harutyun (Holy Resurrection) Church. These ancient structures are adorned with intricate stone carvings and bear the hallmarks of Armenian ecclesiastical architecture with distinctive conical domes and cross-stones (khachkars). Kecharis was founded by the Pahlavuni princes and was home to a notable scriptorium where many manuscripts were produced. Over the centuries, it underwent several restorations, particularly after suffering damage from earthquakes. Today, the monastery welcomes visitors who wish to explore a piece of Armenia's historical and spiritual heritage.