Haghpat

Haghpat Monastery, located in the northern region of Armenia, specifically in Haghpat village of the Lori district, holds a history dating back to the 10th century, though the exact founding date remains uncertain. The establishment of the Tashir-Dzoraget kingdom of the Kyurikids in 979 and the attention given to Haghpat by various Armenian rulers greatly contributed to the construction of numerous religious and civil structures within the monastery.

Religious buildings at Haghpat come in two main types: the cross-winged dome structures with side chapels in four corners and the cupola hall type. Among the latter, the St. Nshan church, founded in 976 by Khosrovanuish and completed in 991, stands out as a significant example. The monastery also features vestibules, galleries, and special structures that served as sepulchers for aristocrats, each showcasing the creative ingenuity of their architects.

The bell tower of Haghpat, built in 1245, is a remarkable three-floor tower with a unique design. Its first floor has a cross-shaped plan, while the second floor is rectangular, with the angles cut off. This innovative composition influenced the construction of later bell towers and other buildings, including mausoleums and churches.

An exceptional structure in Haghpat is the book depository, dating back to the 11th century. It exemplifies the advanced level of civil architecture in Armenia during the 11th to 13th centuries. These book repositories, typically situated away from the main churches of the monastery, had square-shaped plans and contained niches for preserving manuscripts.

The Haghpat Monastery stands as a testament to Armenia’s rich architectural and cultural heritage, attracting visitors with its impressive structures and historical significance.