Tatev Monastery (Goris) FAQs In 2024

What is the Tatev Monastery?

The Tatev Monastery is a 9th-century historical monastery located in southeastern Armenia, near the town of Goris in the Syunik Province. It is one of the oldest and most famous monastery complexes in Armenia, situated on a large basalt plateau overlooking the Vorotan River Gorge.

Tatev Monastery can be accessed by road or via the 'Wings of Tatev' aerial tramway, which is the longest reversible cable car line in the world. The monastery is about 250 kilometers southeast of the capital city, Yerevan, and can be reached by car or through organized tours.

The 'Wings of Tatev' is a 5.7 km long cable car that connects the village of Halidzor with the Tatev Monastery. It holds the record for the world's longest non-stop double track cable car. The ride offers breathtaking views of the Vorotan Gorge and surrounding landscapes.

The main features of Tatev Monastery include the Church of St. Poghos-Petros (St. Paul and Peter), the Gavazan (a unique medieval swinging pillar), the Tatev Ropeway, and the adjacent ancient frescoes and manuscripts within the complex. The site also serves as a pivotal scholarly center with a rich history.

The best time to visit Tatev Monastery is from late spring to early fall (May to October) when the weather is pleasant, and the natural surroundings are at their most picturesque. Winters can be harsh and may limit access due to snow.

There is no entrance fee to visit the Tatev Monastery itself. However, if you choose to use the 'Wings of Tatev' cable car, there is a fee for the round-trip ticket.

Yes, there are several accommodation options ranging from guesthouses and B&Bs to hotels in the nearby villages and towns for visitors who wish to stay close to the monastery. Accommodations may offer a local experience with traditional Armenian hospitality.

Yes, there are many guided tours available to Tatev Monastery, which often include transportation, a ride on the 'Wings of Tatev', and an informative tour of the monastery itself along with other attractions in the region.

When visiting Tatev Monastery or any religious site in Armenia, it's advisable to dress modestly. This typically means covering shoulders and knees, and sometimes women may be expected to cover their heads as well. Also, wear comfortable shoes as there is a bit of walking involved.

Yes, there are several attractions near Tatev Monastery that are worth visiting, including the ancient cave village of Khndzoresk, the Devil's Bridge over the Vorotan River, and the stunning natural landscapes of the Syunik region.

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