Horomayri Monastery

Odzun, Armenia

Open to visitors

The interior is normally open, possibly ticketed.

Strollie cannot guarantee access — always check before you travel.

Horomayri Monastery is a monastic complex built into the cliffs of the Debed River canyon in the Lori Province of Armenia, approximately one kilometer south of Odzun village. Constructed in stages during the early 13th century, the monastery demonstrates resourceful adaptation to its dramatic terrain, with structures built both atop and partway down the cliff face. St Mark's Church was erected in 1187 by the Princes Zakare and Ivane Mkhargrdzeli, while Abbot Samuel oversaw construction of additional buildings in 1206. The complex features a three-chambered chapel at its upper level, with canyon walls incorporated as structural elements for the lower buildings. The site also contains caves, khachkars (carved stone crosses), and various carvings characteristic of Armenian architectural tradition, reflecting the monastery's integration into its challenging cliff-side location.