Preparations for an educational trip (Lori)

Preparations for an educational trip

(Lori)

As you already know our trip to Jermuk was unforgettable. We had a lot of fun there and are going to remember it for a long time. Anyway, it has been 2 months since then, so I guess it’s time for another trip. This time we’ve decided to go to Lori. Though we aren’t as excited about this one as we’ve been on other trips, we’re still going, because we’re sure we’ll spend a great time. I think each member of our group has been to Lori even once, it’s very familiar to me too because I spent 7 years studying in Vanadzor. I’ve been to a lot of places there, but I think I’ll still learn something from this trip. So, due to a tradition, I’m going to tell you about one of the places that we’re planning to visit: this time its Sanahin Monastery.

Not far from the city of Alaverdi is located one of largest cities of Lori, the ancient settlement of Sanahin known for its unique landmark – the monastery of the 10th - 13th century. Sanahin Monastery rightly included in the list of best landmarks of Lori as a real treasure of ancient Armenian architecture.

In the first half of the 10th century Armenian clerics expelled from Byzantium constructed St. Astvatsatsin in Sanahin. The church was very similar to Georgian cult structures of that time – the cross-shaped facade crowned with a big dome resting on a round drum. The main monastery church, Amenaprkich, Gregory Magistro's academy, the round St. Gregory the Illuminator temple, scriptorium, and belfry were later built around it.

The monastery territory also hosts a number of other structures. The complex is under the protection of UNESCO, and the monastery is currently under renovation.

For now this is all I got. Review, photos, projects and other stuff – coming soon.