Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
VAYOTS DZOR REGION
Vayots Dzor is one of the picturesque and historical regions of Armenia situated at the
watershed of the Arpa River and its streams. It was formed in 1995 and includes the territor-
ies of the former administrative districts of Yeghaghnadzor and Vayk. The territory of the re-
gion is 2308 sq
2
, it comprises 44 communities and 52 rural settlements as well as the towns
of Yegheghnadzor, Vayk and Jermuk. The regional centre is Yeghegnadzor. Vayk comprises
the basins of the upper and lower streams of the Arpa and its rivulets. The maximal height
is 2987 meters (Amulsar town). Among the natural wonders of the region is the Jermuk wa-
terfall rushing down from a height of70 meters.
Vayots Dzor also abounds in medieval monasteries and fortresses. The fauna of the re-
gion is also rather rich. In the forests of the region live such animals as the bear, ram, the
rivers are rich in trout and in the mountains - different species of birds.
Noravank Monastery
is situated in Vayots
Dzor. It was founded by Bishop Hovhannes, Abbot of Vahanavank, who moved to serve
here in 1205. Later the monastery became the centre of the Syunik episcopacy. The largest
church of the monastery St. Astvatsatsin is said to be the masterpiece of the talented sculptor
and miniaturist Momik. The second church - St. Karapet was erected by Prince Orbelian in
the years 1216-1227.
Selim Caravansaray was built in 1332. In antiquity numerous roads crossed the territory
of Armenia, they connected the different parts of Armenia as well as the neighboring coun-
tries and were economically and politically significant.
One of the famous resort-towns of Armenia Jermuk is situated in Vayots Dzor.
Gndevank Monastery
was founded in 936 by Princess Sofia of Syunik.
St. Stepanos church, the main building of which was built in 936, by its plan presents a
specimen of Armenian churches with a cross shaped central dome. Inside the St. Stepanos
church there is a wall-painting of Mary and the Christ child.
St. Hakob church of the 17th century has been converted into a museum of the Gladzor
university. Near the latter there are 7 contemporary khachkars.
