The word "Sanahin" means "older than the other one," referring to the slightly newer monastery in nearby Hagpat. Like most Armenian churches, Sanahin monastery is smaller and friendlier than its Catholic counterparts

Note the beautiful "khatchkar," the intricately carved stone cross.

Established in 966, Sanahin was a place of prayer and learning, comprising of several chapels, churches, a study hall and a library.

Close-up of the bell tower

Note the cows grazing by ancient ruins in the distance

Inside a hall in Sanahin

Behind us are three khatchkars. The stone crosses are one of Armenia's symbols, they can be found in all of its churches and throughout the countryside. Each one is unique and very intricate.

Khatchkars close-up. The oldest ones are 1700 years old, these ones are probably from the 12th century.

The domes in the monastery each had a hole in the top, which let in a fantastic beam of light.

The halls of the monastery were actually a bit darker than it appears here, I used a long exposure time on the camera.

Not the best cut and paste job, sorry