Oshakan

Oshakan is a small village in Armenia, nestled in the picturesque northern region of the country, not far from the capital, Yerevan. This place holds a rich history, deeply intertwined with Armenian culture and traditions. It is here that Saint Mesrop Mashtots, the creator of the Armenian alphabet, found his final resting place.

Oshakan is renowned as the homeland of Saint Mesrop Mashtots, the founder of the Armenian alphabet. According to tradition, it was here that he established the first library, preserving the most important texts and manuscripts of the time. The village stands as a vital landmark on Armenia’s cultural map, attracting visitors fascinated by history and religion.

The earliest mention of Oshakan comes from the writings of the historian Faustus of Byzantium. In 336 AD, a fierce battle took place here between Armenians and Persians. The Persians sought to seize these lands, then under Armenian rule, but the defenders emerged victorious, thanks in large part to the bravery of the nobleman Vahan Amatuni. As a reward, the ruling Armenian king, Khosrov III Kotak, granted Oshakan to him.

Archaeologists have uncovered traces of even older settlements near the village. On Didi Hill, the ruins of a 7th–5th century BC fortress were discovered, dating back to the golden age of the Kingdom of Urartu. The fortress was constructed from massive stones bound with lime mortar. Within its walls stood not only residential and utility buildings but also five palace complexes, a church, and other significant structures.

Further excavations have revealed numerous artifacts—ceramics, bone carvings, and stone tools—as well as burial sites from the 3rd century BC. Along the banks of the Kasakh River, ancient acropolises built from enormous stones were found, surrounded by tombstones adorned with khachkars (cross-stones). These discoveries confirm that the lands around Oshakan have been inhabited for millennia, stretching back to the era of paganism.

According to the 2012 census, Oshakan is home to around 6,000 people, most of whom make their living through agriculture and winemaking. The fertile soil allows for the cultivation of various crops, while the lush green meadows provide ample grazing land for livestock.

The Church of Saint Mesrop Mashtots is the most revered site in Oshakan. Its visitors are primarily schoolchildren and students, for whom education holds deep significance. They come not only to receive blessings at the tomb of the saint who created the Armenian alphabet in 405–406 AD but also to pray for patience and discipline in their pursuit of knowledge. The church is rarely empty, as groups of students frequently gather here in large numbers.

Oshakan rightfully earns its place on the list of must-visit destinations in Armenia. When Saint Mesrop Mashtots passed away in 440 AD, Prince Vahan Amatuni chose to bury him in Oshakan. The construction of the church took three years, and the saint’s remains were laid to rest beneath the altar. From that moment on, Oshakan gained a new spiritual significance for Armenians. Over the centuries, the church suffered destruction multiple times. The current structure, built in its modern form, was erected by Catholicos Gevorg IV between 1875 and 1879.

The church boasts a unique architectural style and houses numerous historical artifacts. Nearby, ancient cemeteries and ruins stand as silent witnesses to the region’s storied past.

Adjacent to the church is the Mesrop Mashtots School, which holds additional historical importance—during 1915–1919, it served as an orphanage for children who survived the Armenian Genocide in the Ottoman Empire.

Opposite the church stands the 1962 Monument to Mesrop Mashtots, where every September, schoolchildren from across Armenia gather in a ceremonial tradition to learn the first letter of the alphabet.

In addition to the main church, visitors to Oshakan can explore The Chapels of St. Thaddeus the Apostle, the Holy Mother of God, St. Sarkis, St. Gregory, and Tukh Manuk (13th century) and the famous five-arched Oshakan Bridge, built in the early 18th century from red tuff stone, located just south of the village.

Oshakan is easily accessible from Yerevan, located just 40 minutes away by car.