HNEVANK MONASTERY

To the east of Stepanavan, in a superb site, this monastery founded in the 7th century is in need of serious restoration, but it is not lacking in allure, with its gavit on the stepped porch that flanks the main church, whose drum is decorated with an original frieze alternating black and ochre stones. The building overlooks a wooded canyon at the confluence of the Dzoraget and Gargar rivers, one of the most beautiful valleys in Armenia.

In the village of Kurtan you can also see the church of the Holy Virgin (^5th century) and a cemetery with beautiful khatchkar.