Gndevank

West of the village Gndevaz, 20 km from Jermuk, lies the medieval church complex of Gndevank (931-938 AD). There are many versions about its construction. According to one, it was built by order of the Syunik princess Sophia. Sophia was the daughter of Vaspurakan prince Grigor Artsruni and sister of King Gagik, and was married to Syunik prince Smbat. Sophia's inscription can be seen on the church wall: "Vayots Dzor was a ring without a gem, I built this and placed the gem upon it" ("Mateni er anakn Vayots Dzor, shineci za ev edi akn i veray"). Visiting Gndevank is an excellent opportunity to see a marvelous historical-cultural center, feel the spiritual power of the Armenian faith, make a pilgrimage for self-purification and self-knowledge, and also meet and communicate with hermits who, since 2014, have once again resided there, restoring and preserving Gndevank through their prayers and labors. In ancient times, centuries ago, When stars shone brighter, And the sun was closer, A hermit lived In this stony gorge. In a chapel carved from rock, Remote from all, He raised his hands, Praying to God... At that same time far away, In the land of Syunik – In his splendid castle Lived a prince. Once it so happened – In the hour of fierce battle, A black enemy's sword Wounded the prince. As many times before, He fought long, Gave battle to the death Against his foes. It seemed, from battles He was weary now And slept – An eternal sleep. From the ends of the earth Physicians, sorcerers Surrounded The brave prince, Saying that whoever Saved the prince, Would gain a great name, Vast estates. But neither remedy, nor drug, Nor mighty sorcery Could heal The prince's wounds... In her dark chamber, Wasted and pale, Prayed hopelessly Princess Sophia. She prayed Silently, weeping – Imploring to save Her beloved. Prayed long – Night and day, Falling asleep in prayer – Saw a dream one day: In a stony gorge A stooped old man Prayed fervently For her prince, And the whisper Of the good hermit Materialized In Princess Sophia's dream. On wings of light it came, Enveloped the dark castle, Descended silently, healed The prince's wounds... Morning broke over Syunik's mountainous land, And news spread of the prince's salvation. From every village and canton Voices of rejoicing were heard. The beauty found the gorge of her dream And sold her emerald beads (gndi), Hired talented builders, To raise a monastery on that mighty spot. Many centuries have passed since then, Many castles and fortresses have crumbled. Princes have passed, gone in turn. Only the princess's deed remains forever. And for many years now, from all the world Pilgrims of all kinds come here, Come to pray for their souls, To heal incurable wounds. And they remember the noble princess, See her wondrous deed. How the beauty's emerald beads Became dome and monastery in Vayots Dzor. Not far from the village nestled in the mountains, In the heavenly gorge of Vayots Dzor Gndevank reigns to this day With its fairytale healing power.