Foundation: 4th century
Location: Kotayk province
Distance from Yerevan: 40km / 50 mins – 1 hour
The exact date of foundation of Geghad monastery (the Monastery of the Spear, first called Ayrivank – Monastery of the Caves) is unknown but it is believed to be established in the beginning of the 4th century by the first Catholicos St. Gregory the Illuminator.
The present buildings date back to the 10th - 13th centuries. The Monastery was famous for its relics including the spear that is believed to have pierced the side of Christ on the cross. Geghard Monastery is partially carved out of the adjacent mountain and is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The complex:
- Katoghikeh church Gavit, Katoghikeh church
- Avazan cave church
- Proshian Chapel-Sepulcher
- St. Astvatsatsin (Proshian) church
- Papak & Ruzukan Gavit-Sepulcher (Upper Gavit)
- Lusavorich cave chapel
- St. Astvatsatsin cave chapel
- Residence, Service premises, Parsonage, Refectory
