Vimapor Church of Martiros

VISITOR INFORMATION

Location: Vayots Dzor Province, Martiros village. Rock cut in Nzar mountain.
Access: Through the village of Martiros.
Best time to visit: Spring and autumn (not recommended in winter due to road accessibility issues).
Route: The final stretch leading to Old Martiros village is accessible only by 4WD vehicles. For regular cars, it is recommended to stop at the beginning of the village and continue on foot (approximately a 30-minute walk).

OVERVIEW

Hidden within the cliffs of Mount Nzar, the Vimapor Church of Martiros, also known as Martirosats Monastery, is one of Armenia’s most awe-inspiring cave sanctuaries. This 13th-century complex, entirely carved from a single rock mass, includes two churches and a narthex, making it the second-largest rock-cut monastic site in the country after Geghard. It is a true architectural and spiritual treasure, blending craftsmanship, faith, and nature into one seamless creation.

HISTORY

The story of Martiros village stretches far back into medieval times. According to an inscription on a khachkar by the village’s spring monument, the settlement was founded or rebuilt in 1283 by Mkhitar, son of Deghka, at the command of Prince Prosh and his son Hasan. Some historical evidences suggest that the ancestors of famed Armenian diplomat Israel Ori once lived here. The area is home to numerous preserved monuments, remnants of a proud and enduring past.

The church complex itself was constructed in 1286 by Martiros vardapet, with Grigoric, a master stonemason, as its architect. Visitors can find centuries-old khachkars, engraved crosses, and inscriptions on the walls, including fragments from the 8th century. At the church entrance stands a massive khachkar from 1283, symbolizing the village’s foundation. Nearby lie the remains of the old village and the entrance to a mysterious 200-meter-long rock-cut tunnel descending toward the river.

ARCHITECTURAL FEATURES

The Vimapor Church of Martiros is carved directly into the rocky gorge about three kilometers southeast of the current village. The main sanctuary has a square interior and is covered by a barrel vault. A raised altar is carved into the eastern wall, and the single entrance opens from the west into the narthex. The interior is simple and serene, with smooth stone walls and a soft glow from the only window on the western side.

The second church is connected to the south of the main one through a small doorway. It features a cruciform layout with rectangular arms, and half-columns are carved at their intersections. Niches along the walls serve as side altars. A modest stage and altar are located at the eastern end, illuminated only by a narrow opening from the cliffside. Like the main church, its ceiling is vaulted but has no dome.

Everything-from the entrance arches to the altars-was created by hand from a single rock mass. There is no masonry, no added construction-only stone shaped by human devotion and time.

LOCAL LEGENDS AND TRADITIONS

To this day, the Vimapor Church is considered a sacred site. Pilgrims travel from near and far to light candles, offer prayers, drawn by the deep spiritual energy of the site. Each year, on the last Sunday of August, a pilgrimage is held, during which worshippers make the journey on foot, echoing centuries of tradition.

Today, gentle colonies of bats reside inside the cave, quietly sharing the sacred space. They are harmless, though often surprised by the sudden arrival of visitors.

VISITING AND ROUTE

From Zaritap village, follow the road toward Martiros. Upon reaching New Martiros, take a left turn toward Old Martiros, where the Vimapor Church is located. The site is reachable by 4WD or by walking the final stretch.

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO

• The church is carved inside a cave. Take a flashlight or use your phone light, as there is no lighting on site.
• Bats are present inside the church. They are not dangerous but may react to sudden noise or movement.
• There are no signs or tourist markers in the area. It’s best to ask locals for directions or download an offline map ahead of time.