Kaptavank in Tavush

Kaptavank lies in the Tavush region, about 5 km south-west of the village of Chinchin, in a small clearing surrounded by forest and ravines. According to the inscription on the west wall, it was built in the mid-12th century and consecrated in 1151. Surviving sources mention it under various names, including “Katoghike” and “Holy Mother of God”.

The church is built of large and medium blocks of bluish basalt; according to one version, the name “Kaptavank” comes from this colour. Of the original monastery complex only the church survives, its ruins overgrown with vegetation. A project to restore it through a public-private partnership is currently under consideration.

The photograph shows the round base of the dome with a conical roof of laid stone, overgrown walls below, and green trees all around.