Horomos Monastery is an important religious and cultural structure dating back to the Bagratid Kingdom period, located 7 kilometres northeast of the Ani Archaeological Site, just west of Arpaçay. It was built in the early 10th century AD during the reign of King Abas of the Bagratid Dynasty (943-953). The region is located within the borders of Kars Province, and the monastery site is currently designated as a first-degree archaeological site and a military restricted area.

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History

Horomos Monastery is considered one of the most important religious centres of the Bagratid Kingdom. Its construction began in the first half of the 10th century and was commissioned by King Abas of Bagratid. The monastery was planned as a larger and more functional complex than other churches and monasteries in the region. Throughout history, it has been used as a religious, cultural and political centre.

Architectural Features

The monastery complex consists of two main groups of buildings. The lower group includes the Surp Menas Church, St. George's Church and a burial chapel, while further south, on the ridge of a hill, there is St. Jean's Church and the jamatun where the Bagratid kings are buried. The structures are built of neatly cut basalt and tuff stones. Horomos Monastery is one of the important examples of medieval Armenian architecture in the region, particularly with its bell tower, which has survived to the present day in a well-preserved state. The main building has a unique architectural character with its monastery example added to the narthex structure. Various cross motifs, reliefs of Jesus Christ, grapes and geometric motifs are used in the decorations on the interior and exterior facades. There are many Armenian inscriptions on the walls.

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