Armenia: Marmashen Monastery
Marmashen Monastery dates back to the 10th- 11th centuries. It was founded by the Vahram Pahlavuni, a prominent Armenian noble, and consists of several churches and chapels. The primary structure within the complex is the Church of Surb Stepanos, built from red tuff stone and featuring intricate stone carvings and a cruciform design typical of Armenian religious architecture, characterized by domes, vaulted ceilings, and detailed stone masonry. The complex includes several khachkars (cross-stones), which are unique to Armenian culture and are often intricately carved with religious motifs. The setting is also very scenic – Marmashen is situated along the Akhuryan River. The monastery has been damaged in multiple invasions and earthquakes, but has been more or less restored. A smaller and newer monastery, also from the red stone, is located up the hill in the actual Marmashen village.
