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SEBASTIANO EDOARDO CASELLA


Blog > Saint Hovhannes chapel in the Pambak Mountains

Saint Hovhannes chapel in the Pambak Mountains

Travel Nature Life
Saint Hovhannes chapel in the Pambak Mountains
Posted Thu Apr 16 2026
Updated Thu Apr 16 2026

I visited the church of Saint Hovhannes in the Pambak Mountains, in Armenia. It is located at 2,157 meters above sea level, and reaching it requires a good hike—made even more difficult in winter. And we did it in winter, with snow in some places reaching our knees, but with great satisfaction, because the summit deserves to be fully experienced. And in winter it takes approximately a couple of hours to reach the top, if you don't rest too much. It is said that the saint’s remains are preserved inside.

At the top of this mountain there is a chapel, surrounded by hundreds of khachkars (a carved stele monument, typical of Armenian Christian culture, which has become an unmistakable symbol of recognition of this religious tradition) brought there by the faithful. It is said that on this peak one can express their deepest wishes. It is a small chapel, but one that brings great fulfillment.

Khachkar

As I often like to say, the most beautiful places are up high—whether spiritual or physical, they require strong legs and a strong spirit. A trip here is worth it if you are drawn to deep spirituality, both physical and of the soul, whether you are Christian or not.