Sights in Shirak Marz

Marmashen Monastery

The main site of Shirak is the city of Gyumri. Aside from that the Monastery of Marmashen is most visited, followed by Harichavank Monastery. The terrible road along the Turkish border takes you to an overlook of Ani - the medieval Armenian capital left on the Turkish side of the border but clearly visible (prior permission needed to visit here), and a bit further along is the extremely old Yereruyk Basilica, right on the border.

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November 11, 2008 new by raffikojian

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Marmashen

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Marmashen Monastery
photo by: (c) Raffi Kojian - Armeniapedia.org

This is one of the most popular trips associated with Gyumri. The locals love to visit for a barbecue (or khorovats as it's locally called), and the meticulously restored pink stone structures make the visit well worth it. Exploring the ruins and inscriptions, and napping by the river before a picnic is worth the trip.

type:	Monasteries
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Harichavank Monastery

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Harichavank Monastery
photo by: (c) Raffi Kojian - Armeniapedia.org

This monastery stands out from others. Kids will love the hidden stairwell which is hard to spot in the shadows unless you look for it. Some melted (from water erosion columns) and the chapel on a tall rock that broke away from the cliff the monastery is built on will add to the intrigue. Beautiful ceiling tiles and a completely restored complex surrounded by fortified walls, all make this a standout worth the side trip.

type:	Monasteries
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Destinations in Shirak Marz

Gyumri

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