Khor Virap is a unique architectural monument of the XVII century, the monastery-fortress, the shrine of the Armenian Apostolic Church and a pilgrimage site. Instead of existing now fortress-monastery there was a royal prison. "Virap" in Armenian means pit.
Noravank translated from Armenian means "new monastery". Although today it is hardly true to its name, as it's age is very respectable - over 7 centuries. Beautiful Noravank monastery complex was built in the XIII century on the ledge of a narrow winding gorge of the Arpa River - near the town of Yeghegnadzor. The gorge is famous for its steep red cliffs, towering behind the monastery.
