Odzun Church

About

Odzun Church and the nearby Obelisk stand as fascinating historical landmarks in the Lori province of Armenia. Perched on the edge of a plateau overlooking the Debed river gorge, the village of Odzun offers breathtaking panoramic views of the valleys and mountains. The basilica stands here, dating back to the 5th to 7th century and featuring a pink felsite structure with a three-nave design. Adjacent to the basilica stands the enigmatic Obelisk—a double-stelae structure with mysterious origins. The purpose and meaning of the obelisk remain subjects to debate, although it bears resemblance to funerary monuments of its era. Intricate carvings adorn one side of the obelisk, depicting scenes from the old and new testament and the conversion of Armenia to Christianity. Surrounding the basilica, visitors can find more recent monuments that reflect a chapter in Armenian history influenced by communism, including communist symbols like the hammer and sickle. Odzun Church and the Obelisk together form a captivating ensemble in the enchanting Odzun village.