Surb-Khach
Surb-Khach is an Armenian monastery in the Crimea with the main church of Surb-Nshan. The name translates as Holy Cross, and it is the main shrine of the Armenian community of Ukraine.
The monastery sits on the slope of Mount Hrytsia, 3.5 km southwest of Old Crimea, at an altitude of about 500 meters, so wear comfortable shoes when walking uphill. Construction began as early as 1358: according to legend, the monk Hovhannes founded the monastery around a khachkar, a stone cross brought from ancient Ani.
At the heart of the complex is a three-nave church with a hemispherical dome, and a vestibule, a bell tower, a refectory and two fountains have grown around it over the course of five centuries. Once there was a school, a seminary and a library with manuscripts. Services were resumed in 1994, and in 2002 the complex was returned to the Armenian Apostolic Church.
FAQFrequently asked questions
What is Surb-Khach?
This is an Armenian monastery in the Crimea with the main church Surb-Nshan (Holy Sign). The name is translated as Holy Cross.
Where is it and how to get there?
The monastery sits on the slope of Mount Hrytsia, 3.5 km southwest of Old Crimea, at an altitude of about 500 meters. That is, walking uphill - take comfortable shoes.
How old is he?
Construction began in 1358. According to legend, the monk Hovhannes founded a monastery around a khachkar - a stone cross brought from ancient Ani.
What is interesting to see there?
Trynav Church with a hemispherical dome, and a vestibule, a bell tower, a refectory and two fountains have grown around it over five centuries. Once there was a school, a seminary and a library with manuscripts.
Is the monastery open now?
Yes, services were resumed in 1994, and in 2002 the complex was returned to the Armenian Apostolic Church. This is the main shrine of the Armenian community of Ukraine.