Rock-cut Church of Rind

Located about 4 km north of Rind village in the Vayots Dzor region, on the southern slope of the Gomadrunk peak in the Karkatar Mountains, lies one of the most mysterious structures of the region: the Rock-cut Church of Rind. The exact construction date of this temple, carved directly into the rock mass, is unknown, but architectural features suggest it dates back to the Early Middle Ages.

Architectural Description

The church is entirely hewn into the rock and situated on a difficult-to-access height. It features a unique circular floor plan with a diameter of about 8 meters and an impressive height of 10 meters. The entrance is from the western side, above which one small and two large windows once provided light to the interior. It is believed that the ceiling was once covered with vibrant frescoes. Although the lower part of the altar has eroded over the years, traces of rock-cut niches and storage chambers remain visible in the walls.

The Surrounding Complex and the “Hermit’s Chapel”

There are two prominent rock-cut structures in the Rind area. One is located in historic Ulgyur and is known as the “Hermit’s Chapel” (Chgnavori Matur), while this particular church, despite its grandeur, remains largely undocumented by the scientific community.

The southern part of the rock mass contains several other carved halls with crosses sculpted onto their walls. These halls are currently inaccessible without technical equipment due to eroded paths. A few dozen meters east of the church, medieval khachkars (cross-stones) and their pedestals still stand, testifying to a once-thriving spiritual center.