Akhtala Monastery
Ախթալա
A 10th-century monastery built inside a cliff-top fortress. The 13th-century Byzantine-style murals in the Church of the Holy Mother of God are remarkably well preserved and are considered the most beautiful murals in Armenia.
Akhtala Monastery lies in the town of Akhtala at the northern end of the canyon, within the walls of an ancient fortress on three sides of a cliff. The main Church of the Holy Mother of God was built in the early 13th century and funded by the Zakarian family, who were Orthodox Christians. Its interior is covered with Byzantine-style murals, dominated by blue, with scenes including the Last Supper and the Transfiguration. They are the best-preserved medieval mural ensemble in Armenia. The fortress walls and tower ruins can be climbed for views over the canyon. Admission is about 1,000 drams (confirm on site). It is about 25 kilometers from Tumanyan, roughly 35 minutes' drive, and can be combined with Haghpat in a day trip.
Opening hours
About 09:00–18:00
Nearby sights
- Haghpat Monastery
- Kayanberd
- Mikoyan Brothers Museum
- Sanahin Monastery
- Sanahin Bridge
- Odzun Church
- Horomayr Monastery
- Kobayr Monastery