Odzun Monastery

Odzun Monastery is one of the most beautiful religious sights in Northern Armenia. 

Location

It is located in Lori Province, on the territory of ancient settlements. The region is famous for its historical monuments like Sanahin Monastery and Haghpat Monastery, medieval cemeteries and churches.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Odzun is during the spring, summer, and autumn. In winter the roads can be dangerous due to snow. 

Historical Facts

Odzun Monastery was founded in the VI century above the abyss of the gorge where the Debed River flows. The date of its construction is indicated approximately, proceeding from the architectural style of the monastery. The facade of the temple is decorated with beautiful ornaments, Christ with a book, and the lines of the Gospel of John is carved above the window. The interior is also very unique, the walls of the temple are decorated with rich murals. On the south wall, there is a sundial.

Not far from the monastery there is a unique structure – high blue stone steles under the arches. According to locals, it is a monument to Hovhannes Odznetsi, Armenian Catholicos, who was born and grew up in a monastery. In his honor, the monastery was named Odzun.

How to get

Odzun monastery is located 180 km far away from Yerevan city. You can reach the monastery by public transport, taxi or as a part of a group tour. If you choose to travel to Odzun by public transportation, then you need to go to Kilikia bus station to grab a minibus to Alaverdi town. The cost is 1500 AMD ($3) and the way takes approximately 4 hours. In Alaverdi, you need to take a taxi. The way will take just 10-15 minutes. If you choose to travel by train (the cost is 485-970 AMD, $1-$2) from Almast railway station, you will need to change it in Hrazdan railway station into a taxi, which will cost 12600-15100 AMD ($26-$31). The duration for this tour is 3 hours and 10 minutes. If you travel to Odzun from Yerevan by taxi, it will take 2 hours and 25 minutes with the cost of 16800-24800 AMD ($35-$51).

Get acquainted with our tours to Armenia and visit other no less unique sights of the country!