Goshavank – The Khachkar of Master Poghos

One of the works of master Poghos, a khachkar (cross-stone) of astounding beauty, is kept in Goshavank. Goshavank (Monastery of Gosh) is located in the village of Gosh, in the picturesque mountains of Tavush Province, Armenia.

Armenian scholar and priest Mkhitar Gosh was the one who initiated the construction of this fine architectural complex. Among the works of Gosh was the 268-article “Datastanagirk” (“Judgment book”).

In this work, Gosh wrote that humans are free by their nature and that common people’s dependence from high-status people was caused by their need for land and water. The formation of the local Academy that would teach renowned historians, theologians, and musicians was also connected with Gosh.

Along with other monasteries of Armenia, Goshavank became an important center of the country in the 13th century. Under Gosh was built the main temple of the complex, the Surb Astvatsatsin Church (1191 – 96). This church belonged to the cross-in-square architectural style with a heavy dome, four pylons, and small triangular niches outside.

The monastic complex houses a small arched gallery that connects the vestibule with a two-floor building. The first floor of this building was occupied by a library with a reading hall. The second floor contained a belfry accessed by hanging ladders.

Adjacent to the church from the west is a four-column vestibule built in 1200 – 1203. To the south stand two churches of Saint Gregory the Illuminator. One of them is quite similar to the main church.

The other features sumptuous ornamentation, with its portal having a vivid appearance. A delicate and complex pattern resembling an expensive carpet crowns the entrance to the church. Undoubtedly, the most skillful masters have worked on this church.

The khachkar made by master Poghos in 1231 is possibly the most remarkable artifact of the monastery. Carved with the most precise instruments, this is one of the best khachkars in Armenia. Poghos would be honored for his brilliant work and buried in the monastery after his death.

During one of the recent construction works, a strong wall with exceptionally large masonry was discovered in the vicinity of the complex, which once again attests that Armenia is much more ancient than it is accepted by scholars.

Գոշավանք – Goshavank Monastery

Kloster Goshavank, Armenien / Monastery Goshavank, Armenia

Озеро Парз монастырь Гошаванк монастырь Джухтакванк с DJI Mavic Pro