The monastery of Noravank and the upper Amaghou Va

I have visited this site three times in the past two years (including the day I am writing this review). Armenia is a country rich with ancient monasteries, with all three of their WHS as monasteries. With that in mind, does the list have room for one more? Tatev Monastery, which is found further south, is planned for 2028, perhaps leaving Noravank left on the tentative list for many more years. I hope that is not the case!

Getting to Noravank involves a beautiful drive through the Gnishik Canyon, past several caves and towering red cliffs. The monastery itself is a true work of art created by Momik, who was also credited with the nearby Areni church and the old 13th century bridge that spans the Arpa River nearby. I appreciate how the monastery seems to blend in with the surroundings, creating one of the most atmospheric sites in all of Armenia. 

As a mixed site, the surrounding landscape has several well established hiking trails with Bezoar goats and even bears roaming around. Several caves are found there as well, including the world famous Areni-1 cave located just 6 km from the monastery. The oldest shoe as well as evidence of the oldest wine-making process in the world was found in this cave (over 6,000 years old)! If the entire nomination encompasses this whole 6-km long canyon, starting from the cave and ending in Noravank, I believe it would be a very worthwhile addition to the World Heritage …

Just visited (July 2014). Easy to see if you are in southern Armenia - the best place to start journey seems to be Yeghegnadzor - it is possible to hire a taxi there (the most convenient way, average cost of taxi in Armenia is around 100 AMD per one km). It is also possible to go by marszrutka (local bus) to Areni, before that town there will be a side road to Noravank (8 km walk).

The whole monastery is beautifully situated in high mountains, landscapes are amazing. In the monastery don't forget to see the upper church of Surb Astvatsatsin (Holy Mother of God) - the steps are outside. As in whole Armenia fresh water is availabe from the source within monastery premises.