Sevanavank

 This is one of the icons of Armenia.  (Pic courtesy of Wikipedia)

 

These are two churches, built  on what was an island in Lake Sevan.  Under the Soviets, the level of the lake dropped in order to provide hydro-electricity, so the island became a peninsula.

There are over 200 steps to reach the monastery.  They weren't high steps, but like much of Armenia, the ground is uneven and railings unpredictable.  However, we did make it to the top.  It was so windy that I didn't stop to take photos.

But at the top was the building.  It was founded in 874, and presumably built soon after.

It is another old, dark church - with minimal lighting! But very evocative, considering its age.