Haghpat Monastery

Haghpat Monastery is a medieval Armenian monastic complex in Lori Province, northern Armenia, founded in the 10th century and recognized for its distinctive medieval architecture. It is part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site paired with nearby Sanahin.

Founded in the 10th century during the Bagratid period of Armenian cultural development, the monastery functioned as a religious, educational and cultural centre through the medieval period and underwent restorations in later centuries. It remained an active monastic site with intermittent restoration and conservation work into the modern era.

Situated in the Lori region of northern Armenia near the village of Haghpat, the complex occupies a hillside overlooking the Debed River valley, approximately a few hours’ drive from Armenia’s capital, Yerevan.

• UNESCO inscription: Inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site together with Sanahin in 1996 for its medieval Armenian architecture and monastic ensemble.

What to See #

• Surb Nshan (main church): The Church of Surb Nshan (Holy Sign), the monastery's principal church dating to the 10th century and notable for its architecture and stone carvings.
• Refectory, library and monastic buildings: Medieval refectory, library and monastic buildings forming a compact complex on a hillside overlooking the Debed River valley.