Kobayr Monastery

Kobayr Monastery complex was built in 12th-13th century. Kobayr Monastery, which means ayr – cave in Armenian and kob-cave in Georgian, is located in Lori region of Armenia, on the slope of Debed gorge. In the Middle Ages, Kobayr Monastery was an important cultural and correspondence center in Armenia.

The main complex consists of three churches. There are also a beautiful bell tower tomb, a dining room, chapels, cross-stones and the ruins of the fortress wall. The Church Mariamashen is located in the eastern part of the big church on the edge of the cliff. This amazing church was built in 1171 by the daughter of the king Kyurike 2nd. The refectory’s entry from the western side was built without any decorations. The beautiful bell tower tomb, which is located near the church, in the middle of the complex, was built in 1279.

The amazing complex with surrounding picturesque nature makes an uncommonly harmonic combination. As also it makes the panorama of the monastery exceptionally impressive. The Monastery of Kobayr is especially distinguished for its frescos and ornaments. According to the legend, the main heroine of the poem “Anush and Saro”, written by Hovhannes Tumanyan, throw out from the window of Kobayr church right to Debed gorge.

In 2006 new restoration works had begun in Kobayr to give it a new architectural breath. The amazing Monastery of Kobayre is a must-see place in Armenia. And visitors coming first time in Armenia will be impressed with the original beauty of such “flower” as a Monastery of Kobayr.