Kecharis Monastery (Tsaghkadzor) FAQs In 2024

What is Kecharis Monastery?

Kecharis Monastery is a medieval monastic complex located in the ski resort town of Tsaghkadzor in Armenia. Dating back to the 11th to 13th centuries, it was a major religious, cultural, and educational center of its time. The complex typically includes several churches, chapels, and a mausoleum.

Kecharis Monastery is situated in the town of Tsaghkadzor, which is in the Kotayk Province of Armenia. Tsaghkadzor is a popular destination for both winter sports and summer tourism, and the monastery is one of its main attractions.

Tourists should visit Kecharis Monastery to explore Armenian medieval architecture, witness historical frescoes and khachkars (stone-crosses), and enjoy the serene atmosphere. It's an opportunity to delve into the religious history of the region and appreciate the craftsmanship of ancient Armenian stonemasons.

Kecharis Monastery primarily consists of three churches – the Church of Saint Grigor, the Church of Saint Nshan, and the Church of Saint Katoghike – as well as several chapels, a gavit (an entry complex), and a mausoleum where notable figures from the medieval Bagratuni dynasty are buried.

The best time to visit Kecharis Monastery is from late spring to early fall (May to October) when the weather is most favorable for sightseeing. However, since Tsaghkadzor is a ski resort, winter visitors can also enjoy the surrounding snow-covered landscapes and vibrant winter sports atmosphere.

Typically, there is no entrance fee to visit Kecharis Monastery, making it an accessible attraction for tourists. However, donations are often appreciated to help with the upkeep of the site.

Guided tours are not always available on-site, but tourists can hire local guides from Tsaghkadzor or arrange for a guided tour from Yerevan, which often includes transportation and more detailed information about the monastery and the surrounding area.

Visitors should allot at least 1 to 2 hours to thoroughly explore Kecharis Monastery, which allows enough time to appreciate the architecture, take photos, and possibly attend a service if one is being held.

Other attractions near Kecharis Monastery include the Tsaghkadzor ski slopes, the Ropeway (cable car), the Orbeli Brothers Museum, and the beautiful natural landscapes that are ideal for hiking in summer and skiing in winter.

Visitors may be able to attend religious services at Kecharis Monastery if they happen to be present during scheduled service times. It is considered a still-active religious site for the Armenian Apostolic Church, and experiencing a service can be a unique cultural experience.

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