Greetings. When the country Armenia is mentioned, not so many people are intrigued. However, for historical and arts enthusiast, this country draws substantial reactions. And why is that? A prominent medieval monastery is the reason behind such reactions. This monastery is commonly referred to as Geghard . By the end of this speech, you will all be familiar with the monastery as well what the monastery consists of. We will have a brief introduction about the history of the monastery, followed by its components of the complex and the values which the monastery has imparted not only to native Armenians but also visitors.
Geghard was founded in the 4th century by Gregory the Illuminator, who was an adept Christian and contributed greatly to the transition of Armenia from paganism to Christianity. It is located on a cliff alongside the Azat River valley. Geghard is located in Kotayk province, Armenia. The monastery was named after the lance that pierced Christ’s side during crucifixions. During the past, the monastery consisted of residential as well as religious establishments such as churches. The first church was built out of rocks in 1215. It was entirely dug into the rocks and on an equal-armed cruciform plan. The site was heavily involved on religious activities. For instance, according to UNESCO, Geghard was a popular pilgrimage site for Armenian Christians. Additionally, several relics from previous apostles such as Andrew and John. The spear that pierced Christ’s side was also donated by Apostle Jude.
Geghard’s complex consists of several gorges that were erected during the medieval ages. These depictions are aimed at giving you an idea of what the monastery looks like, so that you are familiar before you visit the site. The main church is known as the Katoghike Chapel. The Katoghike plan is formed of an equal-armed cross. The southern section of the chapel is decorated with pomegranate depictions hanging from trees. At the entrance, two dove pictures are showcased in an arch-like manner. The north-western side of the facility consists of the Rock-Cut church. As the name suggests, this church is entirely built out from rocks. It was erected in the 1240s. it consists of a similar design to the Katoghike, an equal armed cruciform plan. This site also consists of an altar where priests used to conduct services and dish out holy sacraments to congregants. The Vestry or locally known as gavit, is located on the west side of the main temple. It was set up between 1215-1225. The vestry consists of four pillar columns tat support its large roof. The main activities conducted in the gavit were preaching and receiving of pilgrims.
The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization describes the Geghard monastery as an exceptionally well preserved and complete example of medieval Armenian monastic architecture and decorative art, with many innovatory features which had a profound influence on subsequent developments in the region. This depiction has shown how the monastery’s management has been able to preserve the medieval monastery through some values. For instance, the management exhibited integrity. The original structures have only been maintained. No substantial structural changes have been orchestrated. Authenticity of the site has also been well preserved. According to UNESCO, part of a wall at the monastery collapsed. A rebuilt plan was formulated and implemented. The renovation plan was aligned with the original plan.
To sum up my speech, Armenia has been on the frontline in maintenance of its medieval structures. The Geghard monastery is a clear depiction of how management structures have greatly contributed to the proficient administration of the facilities. The monastery has also been on the forefront in promoting religion awareness to its visitors. Thank your time!
References
UNESCO World Heritage Centre. (n.d.). Monastery of Geghard and the Upper Azat Valley. Retrieved May 14, 2021, from https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/960/