As a result of the document signed on November 9, 2020, the majority of Artsakh’s spiritual and cultural heritage remained under enemy control. There were many rumors that Amaras also was outside of Armenian control, but that does not correspond to reality whatsoever. These rumors were most likely due to the fact that worshippers mainly visit the monastery complex with Russian peacekeepers. But the reality is that the enemy’s positions are very close to the monastery, and peacekeepers accompany visitors for their safety. I also want to mention that mass is frequently held at Amaras, as well as several other religious ceremonies. A mass is also planned for Easter Sunday.
Heavy battles took place near the monastery during the recent war. There were also attempts at sabotage, which the Armenian side prevented, keeping the Amaras monastery complex and the adjacent areas, the Machkalashen and Sos villages, invincible. Dozens of heroic soldiers’ names were crowned in glory while defending Amaras.
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It is no secret that Amaras is one of the spiritual centers that is unique in every way, where every stone has a message from Mesrop Mashtots. According to historians, the Amaras Monastery was founded by Gregory the Illuminator at the beginning of the 4th century, and at the beginning of the 5th century, Mesrop Mashtots opened the first school in Artsakh at the Amaras Monastery.
Active construction projects were taking place at the monastery complex until the war. According to our sources, those projects will continue, and the monastery will operate in full. Priests will establish permanent residence here, and a rehabilitation center will be opened for soldiers.
This will make the population have stronger ties with the church.
Ter Voghormya can still be heard from the church. Every moment is fragrant with frankincense here, the liturgies are the wealth of the soul, and the loneliness is the fullness. Soldiers are also frequently present at the liturgies. It is true that the army receives its power from the Creator. Our soldiers also pray for peaceful and safe days. And they, with God’s blessing, are the guarantors of this peaceful day.
Vova Arzumanyan
Photos by Karine Dadamyan
