Marmashen church

Marmashen Monastery is a monastic complex of five churches built in the 10th century, with construction continuing into the 13th, near the village of Marmashen in Shirak Province. The stonework and architectural style closely echo those of Khtzkonk Monastery, placing Marmashen among the notable examples of medieval Armenian church-building in the region.

The complex stands on the left bank of the Akhuryan River, a short distance northwest of Gyumri, in the historic Shirak district of the old Ayrarat province.

Marmashen lies a short drive northwest of Gyumri, near the village of Marmashen on the left bank of the Akhuryan River — a natural stop when touring Shirak's monastic sites.

Shirak's plateau climate brings cold winters and mild summers, so the exposed monastery grounds are most comfortable to visit in the warmer months.