Jgrashen Church

History and Location

Jgrashen Church was built in 1195 by an Armenian named Salavma on the site of an earlier ruined church. Armenian inscriptions on the church walls attest to this. Initially, it was called the Church of the Holy Mother of God.

This hidden monument of Haghpat village is located just 20 meters from the walls of the Haghpat Monastery. Since most visitors enter the monastic complex without paying attention to the small church, it often goes unnoticed.

Architectural Features

Jgrashen Church is built from dressed basalt and its architectural appearance seems to offer tranquility to visitors. It has a rectangular plan and a gable roof. The entrance is on the western side, framed with carved decorations. Above the door, on a semicircular stone, are carved small khachkars, dove-shaped birds, and rose-like flowers. Similar carvings are on the walls, where 2 khachkars are embedded, featuring plant motifs crafted with exquisite detail. On the western and eastern sides, there are long, narrow windows with arched tops.

Surroundings

In front of Jgrashen Church is a small cemetery with 12 tombstones. One of them bears the name David in Armenian, and another — Hasan. This small cemetery essentially serves as the family graveyard of the church’s founder. Currently, due to the soil layer, the tombstones are not easily visible.

A beautiful view opens from near the church towards the large watchtower of the Haghpat Monastery walls and Surb Nshan Church.

Visiting Information

To see Jgrashen Church, go to the entrance of Haghpat Monastery. Before reaching the stairs, on the right, there is a modest iron door. Upon entering, you will find this small but historic monument. During spring, summer, and autumn, the door may be hidden by temporary market stalls set up on the site. Walk around them and enter. Entrance is free and open 24 hours.