The Vayots Dzor region of Armenia is incredibly unique, and if you have the opportunity, consider visiting this sight to experience the stunning natural beauty of the area. Camping and hiking here can make for an unforgettable vacation amidst the mountains.
This photo story provides a quick overview of Arates village, along with the Arates monastery and its surrounding areas. The photos were captured by me in October 2023, during the stunning autumn season.
Arates moastery complex, village of Arates, Vayots Dzor province of Armenia.
Arates monastery wall scripts
Arates monastery
Inside the monastery of Arates
Wall scripts inside the monastery of Arates.
Arates monastery, Armenia, Vayots Dzor region.
Arates
The Arates monastery complex is situated in the Vayots Dzor province of Armenia, specifically in the historic village also named Arates. While there are some inscriptions that have survived, not much is known about the complex. It did serve as a bishop’s residence in the 13th century.
Nature of Vayots Dzor, Arates village, Armenia.
The Arates monastery complex has nine buildings in total, with four big ones and five small ones positioned next to each other. They all face the same way, from north to south. Among these buildings, three are churches named St. Zion, St. Karapet, and St. Mother of God. However, the inscriptions don’t specify which name corresponds to each church.
Monstery of Arates
The monastery complex of Arates underwent its final renovation in the 13th century, specifically in the year 1270. There exists a preserved donation document regarding this renovation, mentioning that it was carried out under the support of the monastery leader named “Nvast Abegha.”
Clouds over the road: near the village of Yeghegis, Armenia, Vayots Dzor province. Photo by Vardan Papikyan, 2023.
The natural setting of Arates village is truly magnificent, nestled amidst the mountains and situated along the banks of the Martuni River. The air is crisp and refreshing, with warm days and cool evenings during the summer months. It’s indeed a paradise getaway destination.
How to get to Arates?
To reach Arates, you’ll need to travel south from Yerevan through Ararat Marz and into Vayots Dzor Marz. Before reaching Yeghegnadzor town, you’ll turn onto the road leading to the Varednyats pass (towards the Selim caravan site), then continue passing the village of Getap which is famous with its wines towards Shatin village. From there, take a right onto the road leading to Yeghegis and Hermon villages.
Upon reaching Hermon village, turn left towards Arates. You’ll find clear signs along the way, and Google Maps accurately navigates these routes. The road up to Hermon is fully paved, while the road from Hermon to Arates is a bit rougher but still suitable for all types of vehicles.
In Arates village, the road to the monastery is unpaved with some steep slopes. If you don’t have an off-road vehicle, be prepared to walk approximately 100-200 meters.
Hotels and BNBs
Nearby, next to the village of Hermon, there is the Lucitur holiday house, which is equipped with all the amenities and comfortable rooms for relaxation.
Alik BNB is also located in Goghtanik village, on the banks of Yeghegis river, where you can also organize your overnight stay with breakfast.
