Aruch Cathedral Monastery Complex
Confession: Armenian Apostolic Church
Date of foundation: 7th century
Status: Inactive monastery
Condition:Dilapidated
From Yerevan: 46 km / 50 min
TheChurch of St. Gregory (Aruchavank)is the main monastic complex ofthe village of Aruch, located at the foot of the eastern slopeof Mount Aragats, in the Aragatsotsn region. Arucha Monastery is one of the most important spiritual and architectural monuments of Armenia.
Aruch is the largest among the early medieval domed churches (34.6 x 16.95 m); It is distinguished both by its architecture and its preserved frescoes. According to information provided by Armenian historians, the church was built during the reign of the ArmenianPrince Grigor Mamikonyanand the primacy of the Catholicos of All ArmeniansAnastas Akoretsi.
According to the building inscription, the church was built in the 7th century. In the 60s The temple is in a dilapidated state. In the past, the interior was covered with frescoes depicting the Ascension, which have now almost disappeared. In Aruch, the ruins of Bronze Age tombs, an old castle, a caravanserai (13th century) and other monuments have been preserved. In the dome, about 7 meters high, Christ was depicted holding a scroll in his left hand. The name of the artist Stepanos is written under the pedestal.
You can visit Aruchavank as part of our package “Tour to Gyumri”.
