This 1987 postcard from the «Старые открытки» archive captures the architectural complex of Geghard Monastery, located in the Kotayk Province of Armenia. Despite the inscription “Yerevan” on the postcard, the monastery itself is situated outside the capital, serving as a popular excursion destination.
What is shown on the postcard
The foreground of the postcard displays the extensive Geghard Monastery complex, partly carved into the rock face and partly constructed from stone. The main temple, with its distinctive conical dome, dominates the center of the composition, surrounded by other structures. The monastery is set against majestic rocky mountains, featuring numerous caves and natural indentations. In the lower part of the image, green trees, pathways, and several parked cars are visible, indicating the site’s accessibility to visitors.
Historical note
Geghard Monastery, meaning “Monastery of the Spear” in Armenian, is named after the Holy Lance that is said to have pierced Jesus Christ and was kept here for five centuries. The complex was founded in the 4th century by Saint Gregory the Illuminator at the site of a sacred spring within a cave. The main structures, including the Katoghike main cathedral, date primarily from the 13th century. A distinguishing feature of Geghard is its unique rock-cut churches and burial chambers, entirely carved out of monolithic rock, making it an outstanding example of medieval Armenian architecture. In 2000, the monastery was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage list.
Present day
Today, Geghard Monastery remains one of Armenia’s most significant cultural and pilgrimage centers. It attracts thousands of tourists and pilgrims from around the world who wish to see its unique rock-cut churches, enjoy the historical atmosphere, and experience the natural beauty of the surrounding area. The complex is well-maintained, and its accessibility is ensured by developed tourist infrastructure, including roads leading to the monastery.
Location (map)
Address: Geghard Monastery, Kotayk Province, Armenia
Coordinates: 40.139600, 44.814800
(Google Maps)
Coordinate source: Coordinates are based on the precise identification of the Geghard Monastery complex, Kotayk Province, Armenia. Despite the inscription “Yerevan” on the postcard, the monastery itself is located outside the capital..
Questions and answers
- Why does the postcard say ‘Yerevan’ if Geghard Monastery is not in Yerevan? The postcard was likely produced in Yerevan or intended for tourists visiting the capital, as Geghard is a popular tourist destination accessible from Yerevan, but the monastery itself is located in the Kotayk Province of Armenia.
- When was Geghard Monastery founded? Geghard Monastery was founded in the 4th century by Saint Gregory the Illuminator at the site of a sacred spring.
- Why is the monastery called Geghard? The name “Geghard” means “Monastery of the Spear” in Armenian and is given in honor of the Holy Lance, which is said to have pierced Jesus Christ and was kept there.
See also
The «Old Postcards» archive includes other views of Yerevan from 1987.
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