Saint Stepanos Monastery

Marvel of centuries is built in the 7th century and completed in the 10th century; the flamboyant monastery was partly destroyed during the wars between Seljuks and Byzantines of the 12th century. Following the conquest of the region by the Mongols of Hulagu, the Christians benefited from the favorable policy of the Ilkhans dynasty and a peace agreement was signed between the Armenian Church and the Ilkhans. The monastery will therefore be completely rebuilt around 1330, at the instigation of the Zechariah, from the previous elements. The 14th and 15th centuries were a period of cultural influence.

Since the period of the expansion of the monastery, at the time of St. Stephen, until today, the site has been partially restored or redesigned. You will therefore discover it in its beautiful, almost initial state. It is a classic monument and without great prowess or architectural innovation for its time. The few bas-reliefs that adorn it are simple. However, what strikes the visitor is above all the superb mountainous environment in which this monastery is nestled. You will love taking a little climb on the slopes that dominate the building.

The church was built in the middle of the 17th century, in the midst of the renaissance of Armenian architecture under the order of Bishop Hakob of Jolfa. The walls of the buildings, which are covered with alternating brown and red limestone slabs, will flabbergast you. The facades of the chapel bear sculpted scenes from the life of Jesus (Annunciation, Virgin and Child, Crucifixion, Resurrection) and the martyrdom of Saint Stephen. 25 meters high, the church is covered with an umbrella dome. The drum of this dome has sixteen sides: each symbolizing each apostle, God, the Virgin, Saint John the Baptist, Saint Gregory.

After so many discoveries about the monastery, you will also take advantage of the magnificent nature offered by the city of Jolfa to experience wonderful moments of trekking. On the trails, you will observe the beautiful landscape of the city. You will get wet under its magnificent waterfalls. Above all, do not forget to visit the Qara Kilisa monastery south of Makû, about a hundred kilometers away.

flamboyant monastery

 

View of church