Vanevan monastic complex was founded in the 10th century and is situated in the village of Artsvanist of Gegharkunik region, on the mouth of a gorge. The main church, called St. Gregory The Illuminator (on the left hand), was built in 903 by the prince Shapuh Bagratuni – the brother of the Armenian king Smbat Bagratuni, who was buried in Vanevan in 914. Their sister Mariam is also considered to be one of the founders of the monastic complex. The church on the right hand and the chapel were revealed later. Nearby there is a spring and not a very deep cave. A bit far there are the church of St. Astvatsatsin of Qolatak (9th-10th centuries) and Hnevanq (10th century). Also, in the same area, the cyclopean fortress Bruti berd is located.
